Former Supreme Court judge Esther Kitimbo Kisaakye has written a pointed letter to President Yoweri Museveni, raising concerns over alleged human rights violations and the political climate following Uganda’s January 2026 presidential election.
In the letter shared on X, Justice Kisaakye referenced the January 15 election and Museveni’s declaration as winner two days later by the Electoral Commission.
She questioned repeated public remarks by the President describing his political opponents and their supporters as “terrorists,” arguing that such language has coincided with reports of intensified security operations against opposition figures and civilians.
Kisaakye highlighted continued army and police crackdowns, particularly in the central region, which largely voted for opposition candidates.
She cited the reported siege of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi’s home since election day, as well as a January 23 night raid described by his wife, Barbie Kyagulanyi, involving armed men, property destruction, and alleged theft.
The former judge also pointed to terrorism charges against Butambala MP Muwanga Kivumbi, noting contradictions between the charges and earlier reports that his home was attacked on election night, resulting in multiple deaths.
She further raised alarm over the reported abduction of two NUP vice presidents, Lina Zedriga and Jolly Tukamushaba, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Kisaakye questioned the continued detention of veteran opposition leader Kizza Besigye, citing concerns over his health and access to medical care, and mentioned the imprisonment of Catholic priest Father Ssekabira and activists, including Sarah Birete. She also referenced the de-licensing of civil society organisations.
Addressing Museveni as President and Commander-in-Chief, Kisaakye asked whether such actions could be occurring without his knowledge or consent.
She questioned the meaning of “protecting the gains,” a key campaign theme, and whether constitutional guarantees of multiparty democracy remain intact.
Her letter concluded with a broader question on Uganda’s direction, asking whether the country is moving forward or backward, and whether peace can exist when sections of the population live in fear.