Former minister Miria Matembe has sharply criticised General Muhoozi Kainerugaba over allegations surrounding the reported detention of Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, escalating political debate in Uganda over claims of abduction and abuse of authority.
Matembe questioned reports suggesting Lukwago was being held in a basement, challenging both the legality and transparency of the claims.
She argued that state power should not be exercised in secrecy or used to intimidate political opponents, calling for accountability in the handling of high-profile figures.
She further took issue with Muhoozi’s conduct and public communications, accusing him of using his position to threaten and demean political critics and civil society actors.
Matembe referenced past online remarks attributed to Muhoozi targeting opposition figures and activists, saying such behaviour reflects deeper concerns about leadership responsibility.
In her remarks, Matembe strongly criticised what she described as misuse of public resources and inherited privilege in leadership.
She also questioned the legitimacy of authority that, in her view, is not grounded in public service or accountability.
She added that the tone and content of Muhoozi’s public statements have contributed to rising political tension, warning that such conduct risks undermining respect for institutions and democratic norms.
Quoting her frustration over the matter, Matembe said:
“Basement. They say he is in the basement. Now, a basement… did Muhoozi build his own house in this country? I want to ask. All of Muhoozi’s money, if he has a house, that money is from our taxes.”
She further added:
“He came straight onto a red carpet. He came on his father’s red carpet, entered, and got everything he has gotten. And then he starts saying, ‘I will take you to my basement.’ Whose basement did he build?”
Matembe also accused Muhoozi of making repeated online insults against political figures, adding:
“I saw him tweeting… about Lukwago, telling him that he has now peed on himself three times in his basement.”
Erias Lukwago, Kampala’s Lord Mayor and a long-time opposition figure, has recently been at the centre of public speculation following reports of heightened security attention and alleged detention