Story perspectives

Ugandan Special Forces: Protector or Private Army?

10/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Ugandan Special Forces Command (SFC) is increasingly seen as a private army supporting President Yoweri Museveni.
Critics accuse the SFC of abducting and torturing opposition activists, particularly during election periods.
Its growing power is seen as rivaling the regular army.
Some supporters argue that the SFC protects Uganda's sovereignty and supports regional security, noting counter-terrorism operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia.

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Story summary

The Ugandan Special Forces Command (SFC) is increasingly seen as a private army supporting President Yoweri Museveni.
Critics accuse the SFC of abducting and torturing opposition activists, particularly during election periods.
Its growing power is seen as rivaling the regular army.
Some supporters argue that the SFC protects Uganda's sovereignty and supports regional security, noting counter-terrorism operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia.