An opposition activist has been released following months of alleged incommunicado detention, amid renewed scrutiny of enforced disappearance claims involving security agencies.
According to National Unity Platform (NUP) Secretary General David Rubongoya, party supporter Nazziwa Agatha, popularly known as “Blue Tick,” was abducted on 9 April by armed men in military uniform while heading to attend a vigil for Edith Katende, the wife of fellow activist Waiswa.
Rubongoya said Nazziwa disappeared shortly after the incident and was held without access to her family or legal representation, before later being released from the Defence Intelligence and Security (DIS/CMI) headquarters in Mbuya following court intervention.
In a statement, Rubongoya said: “Our comrade Nazziwa Agatha, aka Blue Tick, was abducted by armed men in military uniform on 9th April as she went to attend the vigil of comrade Waiswa's wife, Edith Katende. Since then, she's been missing - under incommunicado detention.”
He added: “Only yesterday, the military filed this Return to the Habeas Corpus order issued by the High Court, denying holding her in any of their facilities. In the evening, they released her from the DIS (CMI) Headquarters - Mbuya.”
Rubongoya further alleged that the activist was subjected to harsh treatment during her detention.
“She says she was held at various detention places and subjected to incredible torture. As always, they ordered her not to ever again associate with NUP, else she'd face dire consequences," he stated.
He also linked the case to broader concerns over the treatment of opposition supporters under the National Unity Platform National Unity Platform, calling for accountability.
“As we welcome her from this painful ordeal, we condemn the continuing lawlessness and impunity. Grateful to all comrades and the legal team for working hard to push for her freedom,” he said.
The matter escalated after the military reportedly filed a return to the habeas corpus order, denying that Nazziwa was being held in any of its facilities.
However, her release later in the evening appeared to contradict the earlier denial, raising fresh questions about custody transparency.
Upon release, Nazziwa is said to have recounted being moved between different detention sites and held without formal charges.
She also alleged intimidation linked to her political associations.
The allegations come amid long-standing concerns from human rights groups and opposition actors over alleged enforced disappearances and incommunicado detention of political activists in Uganda, particularly in cases involving security agencies.