Concerns over the disappearance of journalist and online commentator Natumanya Andrew, widely known as Ninyez Tabz, have intensified after lawyer Kato Tumusiime issued a strong statement condemning his abduction and warning of a deepening crisis in the country’s rule of law.
Natumanya was taken from Kamwokya, Kampala, by unidentified individuals in a “drone,” a term commonly used in Uganda to describe unmarked Security vehicles.
His whereabouts remain unknown, with no official communication from security agencies regarding his detention or location.
In a statement shared shortly after confirmation of the incident, lawyer Kato Tumusiime expressed alarm at what he described as an escalating pattern of forced disappearances targeting critics and activists.
“Another abduction happened this evening of comrade Ninye Tabz! Where are we headed as country at this rate??” Tumusiime stated.
He called for urgent national reflection and action, warning that the prevailing situation risks normalizing fear and undermining constitutional governance.
“We need to come out now to fight for the rule of law not the rule by law and the gun! People have to walk looking left and right, plus watching their behind for fear of abductions and the basement! What a country!” he added.
Natumanya, a vocal digital journalist and commentator, has built a following on social media platform X through outspoken criticism of government officials and state institutions.
His commentary has frequently placed him at the center of political debate and online confrontation.
He is also aligned with opposition political discourse and is considered a supporter of the National Unity Platform, led by Bobi Wine.
Earlier, the party’s secretary general David Rubongoya confirmed his disappearance, stating that he was taken by unidentified individuals in Kamwokya.
The development has triggered renewed concern among opposition leaders, legal experts, and human rights advocates over the continued use of enforced disappearances targeting critics of the state.
In recent years, similar cases have been reported, often without official disclosure of suspects or locations.
Security agencies have yet to provide an explanation or acknowledge Natumanya’s whereabouts.