The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has told the High Court in Kampala that opposition activist Sam Mugumya has never been in its custody.
In a sworn statement filed before the Civil Division of the court, Lieutenant Colonel Edgar Musasizi, Director of Civil Affairs at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, said a review of all UPDF detention facilities found no record of Mugumya’s detention.
“I do satisfy and return that Sam Mugumya has not at any material time been in the custody of the respondents in this matter,” Lt Col Musasizi stated in his affidavit.
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The declaration came in response to a habeas corpus application filed by Mugumya’s lawyers, who had asked the court to compel security agencies to produce him.
Lt Col Musasizi said checks were carried out across all facilities under UPDF control, as well as with officers from the Chief of Defence Forces and the Directorate of Defence Intelligence and Security, but no evidence of Mugumya’s arrest or detention was found.
He further added: “We have searched all relevant detention facilities’ records and found no entry relating to the said Sam Mugumya between 26 August 2025 and to date.”
Mugumya, a long-time aide to opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye, has previously faced multiple arrests linked to his political activities. His supporters say he disappeared under unclear circumstances, sparking concern and leading to the court petition.
The High Court is expected to consider the UPDF’s response together with submissions from Mugumya’s legal team before ruling on the matter.
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