Political analyst and former intelligence operative Charles Rwomushana was taken away by armed men in plain clothes shortly after appearing on a live radio programme at Radio Simba in Kampala on Saturday morning, September 5, 2026.
The incident has sparked widespread concern and discussion across Uganda, with questions surrounding the identity of the men, where Rwomushhana was taken and the reasons behind his removal.
According to reports from Daily Monitor, Radio Simba confirmed that he had been taken from its premises at plot 2, Corporation Rise, Bukoto, where he had been appearing on the station’s Saturday political programme, Gasimbagane ne Banamawulire.
Armed men reportedly drag Rwomushana from the station.
Video footage circulating following the incident appears to show several armed men in civilian clothing surrounding him and taking him out of the station.
Reports indicate that at least four men were involved. One appeared to be carrying a pistol, while another was reportedly carrying a larger firearm.
The footage shows Rwomushana being escorted from the premises while holding a notebook. The circumstances surrounding the operation have, however, not been fully explained.
It remains unclear whether the armed men were acting on behalf of a particular security agency or whether Rwomushana was formally arrested.
Who is Charles Rwomushana?
Rwomushana is a well-known Ugandan political commentator whose appearances on radio and television have made him a familiar figure in the country’s political discussions.
He previously worked in intelligence and has regularly provided commentary on Uganda’s political and security affairs. His outspoken views have also occasionally placed him at the centre of political controversy.
According to the station, Rwomushana had appeared on Radio Simba several times and was a regular participant in political discussions on the station.
Incident comes amid intense political debate
The reported seizure comes at a time when Uganda’s political environment is experiencing intense debate over leadership, succession and disagreements among influntial figures.
He had recently discussed alleged political differences involving Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and Odrek Rwabwogo, including disagreements surrounding the Presidential Adisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID).
However, there is currently no official confirmation that these comments were the reasons for his removal from the station.
It would therefore be premature to state that his reported arrest was directly connected to those discussions above stated.
Public Reactions
News of Rwomushana’s removal quickly from spread on social media, with politicians, journalists and members of the public demanding clarification.
National Unity Platform Secretary General David Rubongoya was among those who raised concerns about the incident, questioning why armed men in civilian clothing had taken Rwomushana from the radio station.
Former Kampala Lord mayor Doreen Nyanjura also expressed concern over what she described as the forceful removal of the political commentator.
The incident has generated renewed discussion about the safety of journalists, political commentators and other people who participate in Uganda’s public debate.
What happens next?
The biggest unanswered questions remain who ordered the operation, which security agency was involved, why Rwomushana was taken and where he is currently being held.
Until authorities provide an official explanation, reports about the incident of his detention should be treated carefully.
For now, Radio Simba’s confirmation and the footage that shows Rwomushana being taken from its premises has the made the story.