Fresh claims surrounding the disappearance of former Butambala MP Muwanga Kivumbi have intensified political pressure on Ugandan authorities, with opposition figures alleging torture and unlawful detention.
In a social media statement, NUP activist and diaspora coordinator Daniel Kawuma said the party had received reports that Kivumbi was abducted on July 9, 2026, by military operatives.
He linked the alleged operation to forces under the command of Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Yoweri Museveni.
“We have received reports from Uganda concerning Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi… He was abducted on 9 July 2026 by elements of Uganda’s military under the command of Muhoozi Kainerugaba,” Kawuma said.
Kawuma further claimed that Kivumbi was subjected to severe beatings and torture at the Kasenyi Special Forces Command (SFC) Military Barracks, though these allegations have not been independently verified.
“The reports further allege that he was severely beaten and tortured at Kasenyi SFC Military Barracks,” he added.
Kivumbi, who also serves as deputy president for the central region in the National Unity Platform (NUP), had recently been released on bail before his reported interception by security operatives in Mpigi District.
His disappearance has since drawn concern from opposition leaders and rights groups.
In his remarks, Kawuma described the incident as part of a broader pattern of political repression targeting opposition figures.
He alleged that the rule of law in Uganda is being undermined through enforced disappearances, arbitrary arrests, and prolonged detentions without trial.
“These events reflect a wider pattern of political repression in Uganda… opponents are subjected to torture, enforced disappearance, and indefinite detention,” Kawuma stated.
The activist claimed that at least 158 NUP supporters are currently detained under similar circumstances, with reports of torture and limited access to legal representation.
He also cited the detention of prominent opposition figures, including Kizza Besigye and Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, describing the charges against them as politically motivated.
“We are aware of 158 NUP political prisoners… others remain missing and out of contact with their families and legal representatives,” he said.
Kawuma called on the international community to take note of the situation, arguing that foreign support to Uganda risks enabling what he termed systemic repression.
“We therefore urge the international community to take note… this is the environment being enabled, in part, by Western taxpayers,” he said.