UPDF Denies Withdrawal of Tooro Royal Guards, Clarifies Security Presence at Palace
Defence spokesperson says security reinforced, not withdrawn, amid ongoing succession events and regional threats
KAMPALA – The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has dismissed claims that it has withdrawn Tooro Royal Guards from the palace, describing the allegation as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by Col. Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, the UPDF clarified that no such withdrawal has taken place, contrary to a statement attributed to the Queen Mother of Tooro, Her Majesty Best Kemigisa, dated September 10, 2026.
The army also refuted suggestions that residents of the Royal Palace are under lockdown or house arrest. “This is to clarify that the UPDF has NOT withdrawn the Tooro Royal Guards from the palace as alleged. Certainly, it is also not true that the residents of the Royal Palace are under lockdown or house arrest as suggested,” the statement read.
The UPDF further stated that it is neither privy to nor involved in the succession processes currently ongoing in the Tooro Kingdom.
However, the defence force explained that due to the magnitude of the ongoing event, the large number of people gathered, and security threats emanating from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the UPDF leadership decided to reinforce the Royal Guards with additional security for the palace and surrounding areas.
“Movements are being closely monitored, with access control measures such as thorough search and checks introduced to ensure everyone’s safety,” Col. Magezi noted.
The statement also revealed that the Commander Land Forces (CLF), Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, visited the palace to pay his last respects to the fallen King and to inspect the progress of UPDF projects at the Royal Tombs, the roads leading to them, and other rehabilitation works.
According to the UPDF, the CLF expressed satisfaction with the work done by the UPDF Engineering Brigade, saying he is confident the projects will be ready for the official burial of the King.
The UPDF extended its condolences to the Queen Mother upon the untimely demise of her son and King, and to the Royal Family, the Kingdom of Tooro, and all the people of Uganda and the region for the tragic loss.
“The UPDF, working with other security forces, remains available to extend all the required support to guarantee security, calm, and the safety of mourners during this period of grief,” the statement concluded.
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