Police have denied holding Edward Ssebufu, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe, the chief civilian bodyguard of Robert Kyagulanyi, leader of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP).
On Sunday evening, the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, and Mr Kyagulanyi alleged that Mr Ssebufu had been abducted by suspected security operatives believed to be from the Special Forces Command (SFC). They said he was forced into a Toyota Hiace van, commonly referred to as a “drone,” and taken to an unknown location.
“Comrade Eddie Mutwe has just been violently abducted from Kiwango village in Mukono District by armed men in SFC uniform using a Toyota drone,” Mr. Kyagulanyi posted on X.
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Speaking to journalists on Monday, April 28, at police headquarters in Naguru, Kampala, police spokesperson Mr Kituuma Rusoke said he had not received any official briefing about Mr. Ssebufu’s reported disappearance.
“I have seen the reports circulating on social media regarding his alleged abduction, but no police officer or security agency has formally briefed me. I am unable to comment further on the matter,” Mr. Kituuma said.
Mr. Ssebufu has often been a target during crackdowns on NUP activities, particularly during election seasons and mobilization drives.
This latest incident has heightened concerns over the treatment of opposition figures and their supporters, especially as political activities ramp up ahead of the 2026 general elections, which many fear could be marred by violence.
Enforced disappearances and violent arrests of opposition supporters were previously reported before, during, and after the 2021 elections, with many victims later appearing before the General Court Martial or being dumped with signs of torture.
Mr. Kyagulanyi, who recently announced his intention to challenge President Museveni once again in 2026, has faced several restrictions on his nationwide mobilization efforts.
Mr. Ssebufu’s alleged abduction came shortly before security forces sealed off the NUP headquarters, citing the need to “maintain public order” following the party’s announcement of a youth protest vote campaign.
“The Uganda Police Force has come across an announcement regarding the planned launch of the youth protest vote, scheduled for Monday, April 28, 2025, at the NUP Headquarters. We hereby inform the organizers and all concerned parties that the event and any related activities will not be permitted. All individuals are cautioned against participating in or facilitating any such activities,” the police said in a statement.
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