Two UPDF Deserters Return from Self Imposed Exile

Two Uganda People's Defense Forces deserters have returned from self-imposed exile in South Africa. They are Tom Mugizi and Major Mike Kakooza, the Forum for Democratic Change-FDC party chairperson and General Secretary in South Africa respectively.

 

Charles Bakahumura, the Chief of Military Intelligence at the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence-CMI presented the duo to journalists at a press briefing at the government owned media center this afternoon. The two former soldiers fled the country in early 2000 citing threats to their lives. 

According to Bakahumura, the duo considered returning back few days ago, because of the prevailing peace in the country. He said the return of the two soldiers is a good gesture for reconciliation and encouraged other Ugandans who are on the run for varied reasons to return home.

Major Mike Kakooza explained that he fled the country in 2005 after he was picked up from his home in Bushenyi. He however, says that he decided to return home, since there is no threat on his life. Tom Mugizi, who now holds a PHD in international relations, says he fled the county in 2001. 

According to Mugizi, he wants to participate in the affairs of the country once given an opportunity by the Government, saying he has acquired sufficient skills. Mugizi also dismissed allegations that he had joined the People's Redemption Army, a shadowy rebel group when he left the country.

 

 

The Defense spokesperson, Colonel Paddy Ankunda and Director of Media Center, Ofwono Opondo welcomed the two former UPDF officers back into the country, saying they had made a good decision. They however, didn't explain whether or not the duo would be deployed by government.