KAMPALA, Uganda — The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has strongly condemned the abduction and reported torture of Edward Ssebuufu, also known as Eddie Mutwe, the head of security for the National Unity Platform (NUP) president. The ULS called it a “gross violation of human rights” and demanded his immediate and unconditional release.
Ssebuufu was abducted on April 27 and has been held without communication, raising concerns both domestically and internationally.
On Thursday evening, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces, posted a photo of a beardless Ssebuufu, confirming he is in military custody. In the same post, Gen. Muhoozi’s remark that Mutwe is “learning Runyankole” sparked outrage and heightened tensions among NUP supporters.
In a statement, the ULS denounced what it described as a “systematic campaign to silence dissent,” warning of a slide into militarized political repression.
“This is not an isolated case,” the statement, signed by ULS Vice President Asiimwe Anthony, read. “Eddie Mutwe’s abduction and the reports of torture he has suffered are part of a broader pattern of abuse that aims to instill fear and crush the aspirations of Ugandans yearning for freedom.”
The ULS cited credible information implicating high-ranking officials within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in the abduction, highlighting a “dangerous entanglement between the military and political power.”
The ULS demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Ssebuufu and all other political prisoners, with full disclosure of their condition and whereabouts. They also called for an independent and impartial international investigation into the allegations of torture, abduction, and state-sponsored disinformation, stressing accountability for all perpetrators, including top officials.
Furthermore, the ULS urged an end to incommunicado detention, torture, and extrajudicial harassment, denouncing them as unconstitutional tools of political repression. They also called for a cessation of state-led disinformation and intimidation campaigns targeting activists, opposition leaders, and government critics, emphasizing the need to protect freedom of expression.
The ULS appealed to the international community for diplomatic pressure, targeted sanctions, and support for human rights defenders in Uganda.
“To our international partners, we say this: the time for statements is over. We need action. We urge you to stand with the people of Uganda in demanding justice,” said Asiimwe.
The ULS reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rule of law and the rights of all Ugandans, pledging to rally legal, civic, and global networks in the fight for justice.
“We will not rest until justice is served and Uganda is free,” Asiimwe declared. “The time for a radical new dawn is now. Together, we shall overcome.”