Muhoozi Rejects UHRC’s Order to Release Eddie Mutwe, Demands Apology
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has publicly dismissed a release directive from the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), describing the order to free detained NUP official Edward Rogers Ssebuufu (Eddie Mutwe) as “stupid.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Muhoozi lashed out at the Commission, saying, “If these people value the lives we gave them, they MUST NEVER even think of sending me such a STUPID letter again! This is their last warning! I expect an apology.”
The UHRC, through a letter dated May 2, 2025, had directed the Ministry of Defence to release Mutwe from military detention, stating his confinement since April 26 was unlawful. The letter, signed by UHRC Chairperson Hon. Mariam Wangadya, cited Article 53(2)(a) of the Constitution and Rule 31 of the Commission’s rules of procedure.
Political Tensions Escalate Ahead of 2026 Elections
Eddie Mutwe, a close aide and former bodyguard to NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), is facing robbery charges and was recently remanded to Luzira Prison following his appearance in Masaka High Court.
He is one of several NUP supporters detained after violent clashes at the funeral of former Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya. Other detainees include Achileo Kivumbi, Gaddafi Mugumya, and Smart Wakabi.
The standoff between the UPDF and UHRC comes at a politically sensitive time as Uganda gears up for the 2026 general elections. The government has also signaled a potential crackdown on the National Unity Platform, accusing it of promoting militant activities—an allegation the party denies.
UHRC Yet to Respond
As of publication, the Uganda Human Rights Commission had not officially responded to Muhoozi’s remarks or his demand for an apology.
This latest confrontation highlights the deepening rift between Uganda’s security apparatus and constitutional oversight institutions, further raising concerns about human rights, political freedoms, and judicial independence in the lead-up to the national polls.
