Kampala, Uganda – October 2, 2025 – The Uganda Police Force (UPF) is mourning the sudden death of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Charles Kataratambi, the Director of Human Rights and Legal Services, who passed away on Thursday morning at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala.
In a statement, the Police said: “The Uganda Police Force fraternity deeply regrets to announce the untimely passing of Assistant Inspector General of Police Kataratambi Charles, Director of Human Rights and Legal Services, which occurred today, 02 October 2025. Details regarding burial arrangements will be shared in due course. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the departed officer. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
UPF spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma confirmed the news to local media, noting that Kataratambi had been battling health complications, including diabetes, since his appointment to the directorate. He had been admitted to Nakasero Hospital in recent days before succumbing to his illness. While some reports have suggested he also battled cancer, official confirmation from the police has pointed mainly to diabetes as a contributing factor.
Kataratambi, a lawyer by training, joined the Uganda Police Force as a cadet officer in 2001 and rose through the ranks during more than two decades of service. His career was marked by both legal and operational leadership, including his time heading sensitive units such as the Police Flying Squad. In September 2024, President Yoweri Museveni promoted him from Senior Commissioner of Police to AIGP, recognizing his contributions to human resource development, training, and legal advisory roles.
As Director of Human Rights and Legal Services, he oversaw legal guidance for police management, the initiation of police-related legislation, and the drafting of statutory instruments for submission to the Solicitor General. Colleagues described him as a calm but firm leader who strongly advocated for integrating human rights into everyday policing. During an address last year to senior police and prisons officers at Bwebajja, he stressed the importance of upholding human rights in all operations, a message that resonated amid ongoing reforms in Uganda’s security sector.
His death comes at a time of significant restructuring within the police force under Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba. Having been promoted just a year ago, Kataratambi’s appointment was seen as a “second chance at high command” after earlier periods of reassignment. His passing is viewed as a major loss to the institution.
