Tensions escalated on Tuesday after Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba issued sharp remarks targeting lawyer Caleb Alaka, who has recently joined the legal team representing former Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among as she faces ongoing corruption-related investigations.
The comments came shortly after Alaka reportedly arrived at Parliament, where a multi-agency probe linked to allegations of illicit enrichment and abuse of office involving senior officials was ongoing.
In a series of remarks shared publicly, Muhoozi questioned the presence of the veteran defence lawyer at the proceedings and suggested possible arrest.
“Alaka? He is arriving for what? Does he want to be arrested too?” Muhoozi stated.
He further escalated the tone, adding: “I’ll put him in my freezer soon.”
The General also appeared to broaden his criticism to lawyers representing suspects in state corruption cases, warning of consequences for legal professionals involved in such defence work.
“Private lawyers representing the corrupt against the state...will face consequences themselves,” he said.
The remarks have stirred debate in legal and political circles, particularly because Caleb Alaka is a long-serving Kampala-based advocate known for handling high-profile criminal and constitutional cases.
He is part of Alaka & Co Advocates, a firm that has previously been involved in major defence work, including politically sensitive and criminal litigation.
Alaka’s entry into the defence of Anita Among has drawn significant attention amid heightened scrutiny of her political and financial dealings.
Among remains a central figure in Uganda’s political leadership, even as investigations into alleged corruption continue to widen.
The developments come at a time of increasing friction between elements of the security establishment and sections of the legal profession, with concerns being raised over the independence of lawyers representing individuals under state investigation.