Buganda Kingdom’s Premier, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called on the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to transfer Edward Ssebuufu, alias Eddy Mutwe, to the police for lawful handling if he is suspected of wrongdoing.
During the opening of the 2025 Buganda Lukiiko at Bulange, Mengo, Mayiga emphasized the importance of due process and condemned the military’s continued detention of Mutwe the chief bodyguard of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
“In such cases, due process must be followed. Let the police investigate and the courts decide,” Mayiga said, reacting to Gen Muhoozi’s recent revelation on social media that Mutwe is being held at Makindye Military Barracks.
Mutwe had been reported missing since April 27, until Gen Muhoozi admitted to his detention in a series of online posts, stating he was being “taught Runyankore” and made to “understand the NRM’s national role.”
One photo shared by Muhoozi showed Mutwe shirtless and clean-shaven, sparking public outcry and allegations of torture.
The Katikkiro described the forced shaving of Mutwe’s beard as a violation of his rights.
“This country is governed by laws. Arbitrary detention and acts meant to humiliate a suspect are unacceptable,” Mayiga stressed.
The NUP leadership has also condemned the act. Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya and Kyagulanyi accused the state of brutality, describing the treatment of Mutwe as part of a broader pattern of political persecution.
“We urge all Ugandans to stand in solidarity with Mutwe and all political prisoners,” Rubongoya said in a statement.
Mayiga also criticized Muhoozi’s claims of tribal divisions, calling them unhelpful and misleading. “Buganda does not support tribalism. Our call is for justice, dignity, and the rule of law for every citizen,” he said.
The developments have added to mounting political tensions ahead of the 2026 general elections, with rights groups and opposition leaders accusing the government of increasingly authoritarian tactics.
