A Ugandan opposition activist who disappeared late last month appeared in court on Monday, limping and facing robbery charges. Opposition leader Bobi Wine and the activist’s lawyer report that he has been remanded to prison.
Edward Ssebuufu, also known as Eddie Mutwe, is a chief bodyguard for Bobi Wine and a member of the National Unity Platform opposition party. He was allegedly abducted near Kampala on April 27 by armed men.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s military chief and son of President Yoweri Museveni, claimed responsibility for Mutwe’s capture in a series of posts on X last week. Kainerugaba stated he was holding Mutwe in his basement and made threats against him. Kainerugaba is widely seen as a potential successor to his father, who has ruled Uganda since 1986.
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Mutwe’s lawyer, Magellan Kazibwe, told the Daily Monitor that his client was produced in a chief magistrate’s court in Masaka city, charged with robbery. Kazibwe stated that Mutwe reported being tortured daily, including being electrocuted, and has not received medical care.
Ugandan authorities have not responded to requests for comment.
A video circulating on social media, reportedly showing Mutwe being assisted into court, shows him limping and supported by two individuals.
Bobi Wine confirmed in a post on X that Mutwe was remanded to prison after being charged.
The Uganda Human Rights Commission, a government body, had previously ordered Kainerugaba to release Mutwe, stating his detention was unlawful.
President Museveni is expected to seek re-election next January. His government has faced accusations of human rights abuses, including abductions and illegal detentions, which officials deny.
