The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has formally written to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, demanding the immediate release of Edward Rodgers Ssebuufu, also known as Eddie Mutwe.
In a release order dated May 2, 2025, UHRC Chairperson Mariam Wangadya instructed the CDF to free Ssebuufu without delay, citing Article 53(2) of Uganda’s Constitution and Rule 31 of the Commission’s procedural rules. She warned that failure to comply could lead to contempt charges under Article 53(1)(d) of the Constitution.
Ssebuufu, a personal bodyguard to opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), has been held in military detention since April 26, 2025. His arrest, allegedly carried out by plain-clothed security operatives, has drawn widespread criticism. On his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Gen. Muhoozi confirmed Ssebuufu’s detention, stating he would only release him if directed to do so by “Mzee,” a reference widely interpreted as President Museveni.
A photo of Ssebuufu circulated on social media on Friday, showing him with a shaved beard, sparking further concern about his treatment while in custody. The Vice President of the Uganda Law Society, Asiimwe Anthony, condemned the detention, calling it part of a broader pattern of suppressing dissent and democratic freedoms.
The National Unity Platform (NUP), the opposition party led by Kyagulanyi, also demanded Ssebuufu’s immediate release, denouncing his arrest as unlawful and politically motivated. Party spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi said the arrest lacked a warrant or explanation, and accused the state of targeting opposition voices through illegal detentions.
Days after the arrest, Gen. Muhoozi, who is also President Museveni’s son, posted on X that he was holding Ssebuufu in his basement to “teach him Runyankole,” sharing a photo as alleged proof.
The UHRC maintained in its letter that Ssebuufu’s continued detention is unlawful and not supported by any legal justification. While the Commission has issued its directive, it remains unclear whether the CDF will comply, especially given previous instances where Muhoozi has ignored summonses and orders from parliamentary committees. The country now awaits the CDF’s response.
