Full Breakdown
Beheading of Rwandan Ex-dissident Robert Kabera in Uganda
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Core Facts of the Murder
On Saturday, October 17, 2026, the headless body of former Rwanda Defence Forces sergeant major Robert Kabera was discovered by local residents in Luwala Village, Kamengo Sub-county, Mpigi District, southwest of Kampala. Kabera, about 50, had fled Rwanda in November 19, 2020 after alleging persecution. Police investigators believe the killing occurred during the night of October 16 or early on October 17. The body was taken to a mortuary for forensic examination; the head has not been recovered.
Background of Kabera and Prior Threats
Kabera was a former military instructor and member of the Rwandan army’s jazz band, later becoming a YouTuber known as “Major Robert TV” with over 140,000 subscribers. After leaving Rwanda, he criticized President Paul Kagame and praised opposition figure Victoire Ingabire. Human Rights Watch documented his claim of political persecution and noted that Ugandan authorities granted him asylum in 2020. In May 2022, Ugandan police briefly detained him for alleged firearm possession, releasing him on bail. Earlier Rwandan prosecutors had opened an investigation into alleged sexual misconduct, which Kabera denied.
Official Police Statements
Detectives are conducting scientific identification and forensic analysis but have not yet identified a motive or any suspects. Officials emphasized that the investigation is ongoing and that standard procedures will be followed.
Responses from Human Rights Groups and Opposition
Human Rights Watch reiterated the need for an independent inquiry. The exiled opposition organization Rwanda National Congress (RNC) called for “a comprehensive investigation” and for those responsible to be “brought before the courts.” Kabera’s brother Victor Agaba described the murder as part of a “witch-hunt” allegedly orchestrated by Rwandan authorities. No comment has been issued by the Rwandan government.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We acknowledge that we registered murder of male adult averagely 50 years whose head was cut off and up to now it hasn’t yet been recovered. We recovered the body minus the head. He was identified as Robert Kabera by his relatives,” — Mr Rusoke, police spokesperson
- “The remains were discovered by locals who informed police. Incidentally relatives were concerned about their person who usually wouldn’t take long to communicate,” — Mr Rusoke, police spokesperson
What Comes Next
Police indicated that forensic examinations will continue and that findings will be released once the scientific identification process is complete. The RNC has pledged to monitor the investigation and press for accountability. Human Rights Watch and other advocacy groups said they will seek international monitoring of any evidence of political targeting. No arrests have been reported as of the latest police briefing.