UMA condemns torture of Eddie Mutwe, Demands urgent medical attention

9 May 2025, 5:36 pm

Byamukama Alozious

The Uganda Medical Association (UMA) has strongly condemned the alleged torture of Ssebuufu Edward, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe, while in prison. A team of UMA doctors who visited Mutwe at Masaka Central Prison on May 7 reported that he bore open wounds, bruises, and swelling, and showed signs of acute psychological distress.

According to Dr. Joel Mirembe, UMA’s Secretary General, Mutwe’s condition is a result of severe physical and psychological torture, which urgently requires specialized evaluation and treatment by doctors of his choice. “Eddie Mutwe is in severe physical and psychological pain. He urgently needs specialized evaluation and treatment by doctors of his choice,” Dr. Mirembe said.

Mutwe reportedly described to the medical team the horrific treatment he endured, including beatings, electrocution, sensory deprivation, mock executions, and verbal abuse. He was also stripped naked and subjected to inhumane treatment.

The UMA team found that Mutwe was unable to walk or stand and had to be carried into the visitation room by fellow inmates. His current condition cannot be managed within the limited capacity of the prison’s Health Centre III.

The Uganda Medical Association has demanded an independent medical assessment by a team selected by Mutwe and his family, immediate access to specialized medical care outside the prison authorities, full compliance with national and international law on lawful detention and medical rights, and institutional reforms within Uganda’s security forces to root out torture and uphold human dignity.

The UMA has mobilized a team of senior doctors available around the clock to provide care and has alerted Ugandan physicians in the diaspora to prepare for possible medical evacuation if Mutwe’s condition worsens.