Uganda’s political landscape has been rocked by fresh allegations of torture and arbitrary detention involving opposition figures. Eddie Mutwe, a prominent bodyguard for opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, was formally charged with robbery on Monday. His lawyer claims that Mutwe was severely tortured during his detention, a statement that has sparked widespread outrage. Justice Minister Norbert Mao condemned the alleged abuse, asserting that courts should not try victims of torture.

The controversy intensified when General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s military chief and son of President Yoweri Museveni, publicly admitted to holding Mutwe in his basement. This admission has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations and opposition leaders, who view it as a blatant display of power and intimidation. The incident has raised concerns about the increasing militarization of Uganda’s political environment and the government’s treatment of dissenting voices.

The Ugandan opposition has accused President Museveni of using military courts to suppress political dissent ahead of the 2026 elections. Despite a January 2025 Supreme Court ruling declaring the practice unconstitutional, Museveni has vowed to continue prosecuting civilians in military tribunals. The government’s actions have sparked widespread condemnation from human rights groups, who argue that such practices undermine democratic principles and the rule of law .

These developments have drawn international attention, with activists and human rights organizations calling for immediate action to address the alleged abuses and uphold the rights of political detainees in Uganda.