Former Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura has strongly criticised sections of the public for branding activist Andrew Natumanya a state agent following his recent abduction and release, describing the reactions as insensitive and misplaced.
Natumanya, also known as Tabz, was reportedly abducted days ago under unclear circumstances before later being released on police bond.
His ordeal has since triggered mixed reactions online, with some Ugandans questioning the circumstances of his release and alleging possible links to state operatives.
In a statement, Nyanjura expressed concern over what she termed as “victim-blaming,” arguing that attention should instead be directed at those responsible for alleged abuses.
“Instead of thanking God that Tabz came out of the torture dungeons alive, instead of thanking God that he was released, some of us are condemning him and calling him a state agent,” she said.
She referenced the recent arrest of Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, pointing out that different victims of alleged state repression face varying levels of harm, but all deserve empathy and support.
“Is your wish to see everyone that is abducted dead?” she asked, questioning the motives behind the criticism directed at Natumanya.
Her remarks come amid growing concern over reports of abductions and enforced disappearances targeting opposition supporters and government critics in Uganda.
While authorities have not issued a detailed explanation regarding Natumanya’s case, rights advocates have consistently raised alarms over the pattern of such incidents.
Nyanjura further questioned the basis upon which Natumanya is being judged, asking what offence he had committed to warrant both the alleged abduction and the subsequent public condemnation.
“What kind of insensitivity and sadism is this? In the first place, what crime did Tabz commit?” she said.
The debate has also drawn in broader political voices, especially following Natumanya’s own remarks during a media interview where he dismissed claims about being a state agent and instead highlighted governance concerns, including calls for the release of opposition figures like Kizza Besigye.