By Dean Lubowa Saava
The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) Chairperson, Mariam Wangadya, has issued a stern directive to the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to immediately release Edward Rogers Ssebuufu, commonly known as Eddie Mutwe, a bodyguard to the NUP president, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu.
It’s been a week since Eddie Mutwe, a bodyguard to National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, was detained under unclear circumstances. According to reports, Mutwe was taken into custody on April 26, and his whereabouts remained unknown until the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, revealed on his official X handle that Mutwe was in his private basement learning Runyankole.
The revelation has sparked mixed reactions, with many questioning the legitimacy of Mutwe’s detention and the circumstances surrounding his confinement. The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has since intervened, with Chairperson Mariam Wangadya ordering Gen. Kainerugaba to release Mutwe immediately.
The incident has raised concerns about human rights and the rule of law in Uganda, with many calling for greater transparency and accountability in matters of detention and custody. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the CDF and the UHRC will respond to the growing scrutiny.
Muhoozi Speaks on X
“I captured NUP’s military commander like a grasshopper (Nsenene). If they keep on provoking us, we shall discipline them even more.” Gen. Muhoozi posted. “he is in my basement learning Runyankole. You are next!” he added referring to Bobi Wine.
Formal Release Order
Date: 2nd May 2025
To: The Chief of Defense Force (CDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba
Subject: Immediate Release of Eddie Mutwe
In accordance with the powers vested in me as the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), I hereby declare the continued detention of Eddie Mutwe unlawful. As per the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, Article 53, you are hereby ordered to release Eddie Mutwe forthwith. Failure to comply with this order may result in contempt charges, as stipulated in the aforementioned article. The UHRC will take all necessary measures to ensure that the rights of Eddie Mutwe are protected and respected.
You are directed to confirm in writing the release of Eddie Mutwe to the UHRC within 24 hours of receipt of this order.
Sincerely,
Mariam Wangadya
Chairperson, Uganda Human Rights Commission
She directed the ministry of Defense and Veteran Affairs to act swiftly or risk legal consequence.
The letter from Mariam Wangadya, Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, to Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, CDF, is quite direct:
“Whereas Edward Rogers Ssebuufu, aka Eddie Mutwe, has been in your custody since 26th April 2025, and whereas the Commission is satisfied that he is being unlawfully detained or restricted, this is to direct you to cause the immediate release of Eddie Mutwe from your custody. Failure of which you may be liable for contempt under Article 53(1)(d) of the Constitution.”
This letter clearly states the Commission’s position on Eddie Mutwe’s detention and the potential consequences for non-compliance.
Eddie Mutwe a close aide to NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi was reportedly abducted in the areas of Mukono district on April 26. reports of his abduction came to public domain the following day.
The situation is escalating:
NUP leaders were planning to hold a meeting to express solidarity with Eddie Mutwe, who was detained under unclear circumstances. However, the Special Forces Command (SFC) raided the party’s headquarters in Makerere Kavule, blocking the meeting.
NUP spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi condemned the incident, calling it a “targeted political crackdown” and “pure political persecution.” He emphasized that Eddie Mutwe has done nothing wrong, and the actions against him are politically motivated.
Meanwhile, the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has ordered the army to release Eddie Mutwe, citing unlawful detention. It remains to be seen whether the army will comply with the UHRC’s directive.
The situation highlights ongoing tensions between the government and opposition parties in Uganda.
