KAMPALA-(MaraviPost)-Major General Deus Sande, the Commander of the Kasijjagirwa Armoured Division in Masaka, Uganda, has passed away.
He was on his way to attend the funeral service of his colleague, Major General Francis Takirwa, when he succumbed to breathing complications.
Gen. Sande’s death has sent shockwaves across Uganda, with many expressing their condolences to his family and colleagues.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) confirmed his passing, stating that he died in Mpigi District while en route to Kampala.
The late Gen. Sande had been a prominent figure in Uganda’s military, serving as the Commander of the Kasijjagirwa Armoured Brigade since 2020.
He was promoted to Major General in March 2025, a testament to his dedication and service to the UPDF.
Gen. Sande’s tenure was not without controversy, however.
He had made headlines in 2021 for remarks perceived as partisan, stating that the army would not hand over power to “ideologically bankrupt” politicians.
This drew criticism from opposition figures, including Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine.
Despite this, Gen. Sande had appeared to shift his tone towards reconciliation in recent years, calling on National Unity Platform supporters to work alongside the government for national progress.
His death has left a void in the UPDF and the nation, with many mourning the loss of a senior military officer.
Gen. Sande had a notable military career, serving as the Commander of the UPDF Armoured Division in Masaka and previously as the commander of the Ugandan contingent in the AMISOM mission in Somalia.
However, Gen. Sande’s career was also marked by controversy, particularly his remarks during the 2021 election cycle, where he stated that the military would not hand over power to “ideologically bankrupt” politicians, referencing Robert Kyagulanyi and the National Unity Platform.
The UPDF officially distanced itself from his statements, saying they represented his personal views.
Gen. Sande’s impact on Ugandan politics is complex, with some viewing him as a symbol of the military’s growing influence in politics, while others see him as a patriot who spoke his mind.
His death has sparked discussions about the military’s role in Ugandan politics and the need for democratic transition.
The UPDF has announced that funeral arrangements for Gen. Sande are yet to be confirmed, but his colleague, Major General Francis Takirwa, will be buried on Thursday.
The nation remembers Gen. Sande for his service and dedication to the UPDF.
