The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has appointed Brig Oscar Munanura as the new head of Defence Intelligence and Security (DIS), replacing Maj Gen Richard Otto.

Munanura, who previously served as deputy chief of DIS, has been elevated to the rank of acting Major General following his appointment to lead the military intelligence agency, formerly known as the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI).

His appointment marks a change in the leadership of the UPDF’s intelligence establishment, which is responsible for military intelligence gathering, counter intelligence and security operations.

Before his elevation, Munanura served as Assistant Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security in charge of Counter Intelligence.

In February 2025, he was promoted from Colonel to Brigadier after being appointed deputy chief of DIS, replacing Brig Abdul Rugumayo.

Munanura also previously served as Deputy General Manager of Kyoga Dynamics in Bugolobi, a subsidiary of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), where he was involved in defence-industrial operations and strategic logistics.

He has also been associated with cross-border intelligence activities, particularly those connected to UPDF operations in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

His experience in counter ntelligence, military operations and defence-related logistics is expected to inform his leadership of the intelligence agency.

The appointment comes amid changes in the administration and command structure of the UPDF, with the Chief of Defence Forces exercising expanded authority over the management of the military.

Under the UPDF Establishment 2021, which was launched in 2024, the CDF was granted broad authority over the command, control and administration of the various elements of the armed forces.

The framework strengthened the CDF’s role in overseeing the day-to-day running of the military, including operational and administrative matters.

Previously, appointments to some senior military positions were largely associated with the powers of the Commander in Chief.

The revised establishment formalised broader responsibilities for the CDF in managing the force.

Munanura’s appointment places him at the helm of one of the UPDF’s key security institutions, which plays a central role in intelligence coordination and the protection of military interests.