Brig Gen Charles Oluka, the late Director General of the Internal Security Organization (ISO), is set to be laid to rest today, Sunday, February 2, 2025.
Online Debate Over Lavish Mansion
Following his passing on Wednesday, Oluka has been the subject of intense online discussions, particularly regarding images circulating of his opulent multi-storied mansion in Katuvu village, Kajjansi, Wakiso district.
Many Ugandans have questioned how a career soldier and intelligence officer could afford such a luxurious home on a government salary. This has reignited calls for lifestyle audits of public officials, a proposal strongly advocated by Inspector General of Government (IGG) Betty Kamya.
Beyond ISO: A Lucrative Business Venture
Despite concerns over Oluka’s wealth, new revelations suggest his financial success was not solely dependent on his government income.
Social media user Ian Gumisiriza shared insights into how Oluka and his wife, Harriet, built their wealth through labour exportation.
When Oluka was sidelined at ISO in 2017 under Col Kaka Bagyenda, he reportedly spent years at home without an official assignment while still receiving his salary. During this time, his wife encouraged him to venture into business, leading to the establishment of Harchar International Labour Agency Ltd.
The company, named after Harriet and Charles, is described as a leading recruitment and labour exportation firm that secures jobs for Ugandans both locally and abroad.
According to its profile, Harchar operates in over 10 countries, including the USA and Canada, providing skilled and competent Ugandans with international employment opportunities.
Oluka held the position of Executive Director, managing the business alongside his intelligence career.
Renewed Calls for Lifestyle Audits
The viral images of Oluka’s lavish home have renewed calls for lifestyle audits of public servants, with critics arguing that government officials should be held accountable for their wealth.
However, President Yoweri Museveni previously rejected the idea of applying such audits to UPDF officers, stating that the military would internally oversee its own soldiers. This stance has left lingering questions about whether military officers’ financial dealings will ever be scrutinized to the same extent as other public officials.
Burial Arrangements Underway
Brig Gen Oluka passed away on Wednesday at Seguku Hospital, and preparations for his burial are ongoing.
According to Col Emmy Katabazi, the chairperson of the National Organizing Committee, Oluka’s body was flown to his ancestral home in Ousia, Apapai in Kalaki district, where he will be laid to rest today, Sunday, February 2, 2025.
