Major General James Kazini, a renowned Ugandan military officer, tragically died on November 10, 2009. His death occurred at his girlfriend’s residence in Namuwongo, Kampala, after a domestic brawl turned violent. Kazini was struck on the head with a metal bar by his girlfriend, Lydia Draru, who was later arrested, tried, and convicted of murder.
Kazini’s death was a shock to the nation, given his prominent role in the Uganda People’s Defense Force (UPDF). He served as the Chief of Staff from 2001 to 2003 and was known for his bravery and leadership skills.
Lydia Draru was sentenced to 14 years in prison for Kazini’s murder but was released in 2021, after serving her sentence and demonstrating good conduct while incarcerated.
Major General James Kazini was a prominent Ugandan military officer who served as Chief of Staff of the Uganda People’s Defense Force from 2001 to 2003. Born in 1957 in Kasese District, Western Region of Uganda, Kazini rose through the ranks despite having limited formal education.
Kazini’s military career began in 1984 when he joined the National Resistance Army, led by Yoweri Museveni. He quickly gained recognition for his bravery and leadership skills, becoming one of Salim Saleh’s bodyguards and later a commissioned officer.
However, Kazini’s career was marred by controversy. In 2003, he was committed to the General Court Martial on charges of creating and maintaining “ghost” soldiers on the army payroll. He was sentenced to three years in jail for causing financial loss, but later challenged the sentence in the Constitutional Court.
Tragically, Kazini’s life was cut short on November 10, 2009, when he was killed by his girlfriend, Lydia Draru, during a domestic brawl in Kampala. Draru was later tried, convicted, and sentenced to 14 years in prison for Kazini’s murder.
Kazini left behind five children from two different relationships. Despite his tumultuous career and personal life, Kazini remains a significant figure in Ugandan military history.
