President Yoweri Museveni’s latest national address has ignited fresh debate after he referenced Miria Matembe’s court appearance, drawing sharp criticism from media personality Mordecai Muriisa and sections of the public.
During the Saturday night address, Museveni appeared to question whether Matembe was genuinely in pain after she was seen limping while appearing in court.
The remarks, delivered in a national broadcast, quickly shifted attention from policy issues to concerns about tone and sensitivity.
Reacting to the speech, Muriisa described the President’s comments as a troubling departure from the seriousness expected in addressing matters involving alleged detention and treatment of a former senior government official.
“In a shocking twist, President Museveni used a national address to mock the limping of his former Minister of Ethics and Integrity,” Muriisa said.
He argued that the remarks raised questions about leadership priorities at a time when the country is grappling with concerns over civil liberties.
Matembe, once a close ally of Museveni, has recently been at the center of controversy following reports of her alleged detention at Mbuya Military Barracks.
Her subsequent court appearance, where she was visibly limping, has fueled public discussion on the circumstances surrounding her arrest and treatment.
Muriisa faulted the President for what he termed as misplaced focus, noting that the address did not sufficiently respond to concerns about Matembe’s alleged mistreatment or the role of security agencies.
“He appeared more interested in ridiculing Matembe than responding to concerns about her mistreatment and the protection of her rights,” he added.