Uganda’s political climate is once again under scrutiny following reported security raids targeting former minister Dr. Miria Matembe and human rights lawyer Sarah Bireete, developments that have sparked fresh condemnation from opposition figures and civil society actors.
Barbie Kyagulanyi, wife to National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, publicly expressed concern over the incidents, describing them as part of a wider pattern of intimidation against outspoken government critics.
Her remarks come amid growing tension after Dr. Matembe reportedly faced security pressure following her criticism of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
In a s statement, Kyagulanyi extended solidarity to both Matembe and Bireete, emphasizing the personal and psychological toll such actions have on targeted individuals.
She framed the raids as deliberate efforts to instill fear and silence dissenting voices, particularly among women in leadership and activism spaces.
“They have built a throne for fear to reign among us,” she stated, arguing that such operations are meant to strip victims of dignity while discouraging public criticism of state actors.
Her comments highlight concerns that these actions are not isolated, but part of a broader crackdown affecting women across the country.
Kyagulanyi further condemned what she described as escalating acts of cruelty against women, including allegations of raids, assaults, and arbitrary detentions.
She pointed to the wider social impact, noting that many families are left vulnerable when breadwinners are detained or go missing under unclear circumstances.
The statement also drew attention to alleged human rights violations, including claims of violence and intimidation targeting female activists.
While authorities have not issued a comprehensive response to the specific incidents, past government statements have often defended security operations as necessary for maintaining national stability.
Despite the challenges, Kyagulanyi called for resilience among affected individuals, urging them to continue speaking out.
She expressed confidence that such actions would eventually be judged by history, framing the current situation as a defining moment for accountability and justice in Uganda.
The developments add to mounting concerns from rights groups and opposition leaders, who continue to question the state’s approach to dissent and civic freedoms.