Exiled Rwandan Critic Robert Kabera Found Beheaded in Uganda

KAMPALA, UGANDA — A former Rwandan army sergeant major who became an outspoken critic of President Paul Kagame has been found beheaded in neighbouring Uganda, raising fresh concerns about the safety of political dissidents living in exile.

Robert Kabera, 50, was found dead in the Kamengo area of Mpigi District, outside Uganda’s capital, Kampala, on Saturday, October 17, according to Ugandan police. Authorities confirmed on Monday that his head had not yet been recovered and that investigations were continuing.

Kabera previously served in Rwanda’s military before leaving the country in 2020. After relocating to Uganda, he became known for publicly criticising Kagame and his administration through online broadcasts and social media.

The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, and police have not identified a suspect or established a motive.

Police Investigate Killing of Former Soldier

Ugandan authorities said local residents discovered Kabera’s body in a bush in the Kamengo area and alerted police. His identity was subsequently confirmed by relatives.

Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke said investigators were examining the circumstances of the killing, including Kabera’s military background and other aspects of his life that could help establish what happened.

Authorities have not confirmed whether the murder was connected to his political views or previous military service.

The investigation comes amid growing concern among some Rwandan exiles in Uganda about their personal security following the killing.

From Military Service to Government Critic

Kabera was previously associated with the Rwanda Defence Force’s Army Jazz Band, where he gained recognition as a musician and performer.

After leaving Rwanda, he established an online following through his YouTube channel, Major Robert TV, which attracted more than 140,000 subscribers and featured hundreds of videos.

His broadcasts included criticism of Rwanda’s political leadership, making him a prominent voice among some Rwandans living abroad.

Kabera said he had fled Rwanda because he feared persecution. In 2020, the Rwandan military announced that it was investigating allegations of unlawful sexual contact involving a family member. Kabera denied the accusations, according to reports, and said he feared for his safety.

Renewed Concerns Over Safety of Rwandan Dissidents

Kabera’s killing has renewed scrutiny of the safety of Rwandan opposition figures and government critics living outside the country.

His death comes against a wider backdrop of allegations by critics and human rights advocates that opponents of Kagame’s government have faced intimidation, harassment and other abuses. The Rwandan government has denied targeting its political opponents.

Rwanda’s leadership has received international recognition for the country’s reconstruction and economic development following the 1994 genocide. However, the government has also faced persistent criticism over restrictions on political opposition, independent media and freedom of expression.

Kabera’s killing has intensified questions about whether dissidents can safely continue their political activities after seeking refuge in neighbouring countries.

However, investigators have not established any connection between his political activities and the circumstances of his death.

Family Fears for Safety

Kabera’s death has also raised concerns about the security of his family.

His widow, Jeanne d’Arc Rwigema Uwizeye, told BBC Great Lakes that she feared for her safety and that of their children following the killing.

The family’s concerns highlight the wider impact of the incident on relatives of political exiles, who may also feel vulnerable following attacks on prominent critics.

Authorities have yet to announce arrests in connection with the murder.

Investigation Continues

Ugandan police are continuing their investigation as they seek to recover Kabera’s missing head and establish who was responsible for his death.

The Rwandan government had not publicly commented on the killing at the time of reporting.

For now, the motive remains unknown. Whether the attack was linked to Kabera’s political activities, personal circumstances or another factor will depend on evidence gathered by investigators.

The case is likely to draw further attention to the protection of refugees and political exiles in East Africa, particularly those who openly criticise governments in their countries of origin.