UMA condemns torture of Eddie Mutwe, demands urgent medical attention

9 May 2025, 5:36 pm

By 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 him at Masaka Central Prison on 7 May reported that he had open wounds, bruises, swelling, and showed signs of acute psychological distress.

According to Dr Joel Mirembe, UMA’s Secretary General, Mutwe’s condition results from severe physical and psychological torture, and he urgently requires specialist assessment and treatment by doctors of his choice. “Eddie Mutwe is in severe physical and psychological pain. He urgently needs specialised evaluation and treatment by doctors of his choice,” said Dr Mirembe.

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 him unable to walk or stand, and he had to be carried into the visitation room by fellow inmates. His condition, they said, 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 specialist medical care outside the prison system, full adherence to national and international laws on lawful detention and medical rights, and institutional reforms within Uganda’s security forces to eradicate torture and uphold human dignity.

The UMA has mobilised 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 should Mutwe’s condition deteriorate further.