Mao comments on Mutwe’s arrest as Sebamala picks nomination form

6 May 2025, 10:29 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Last week, Edward Sebuufu, commonly known as Eddie Mutwe and chief bodyguard to the National Unity Platform (NUP) President General, went missing. His disappearance prompted widespread concern and led various political figures to demand either his immediate release or his production in a court of law, should there be any charges against him.

Among those calling for his release was the Katikkiro of the Buganda Kingdom, Charles Peter Mayiga, who made his remarks during the 33rd Lukiiko held yesterday in Kampala. “If Edward Sebuufu has a case to answer, let him be taken to the police, and then to court if necessary,” he said.

Others who voiced similar concerns included NUP President Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, Sebuufu’s family members, and several NUP party leaders.

In response to the growing public outcry, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs—who also serves as the Democratic Party President General—Norbert Mao, issued a statement regarding Sebuufu’s situation. He stated:

“Following reports that Edward Sebuufu, a.k.a. Eddie Mutwe, a bodyguard of the NUP leader, was produced before the Masaka court in a visibly weak condition and showing signs of torture, we wish to emphasise that the constitutional presumption of innocence is unequivocal and non-negotiable. No citizen should be subjected to any form of punishment unless found guilty through due legal process. The act of presenting illegally detained, brutalised, and tortured suspects before the courts of law constitutes an abuse of the judicial process and stems from the violation of suspects’ constitutional rights. This must be strongly condemned.”

The Minister went on to state that legal precedents exist to guide the courts in such matters. Citing the case of Uganda vs Robert Ssebakijje and 10 others, he noted that Justice Ralph Ochan ruled in favour of protecting constitutional rights amidst flagrant and egregious violations. Mao emphasised the need for the judiciary to uphold the rights of petitioners and the wider citizenry, urging courts to discharge individuals where constitutional rights have been breached.

Similarly, NUP President Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi spoke out following Sebuufu’s appearance in Masaka court, stating that he had been severely beaten and is now unable to walk unaided.

Additionally, Hon. Richard Sebamala, Member of Parliament for Bukoto Central Constituency in Masaka District and a member of the Democratic Party, picked up his nomination form yesterday to contest for the presidency of the party. In his address, Sebamala stated that the party has been facing several challenges and that it is time for all former members, who left for various reasons, to return home and help develop the party. He confirmed that he is ready to lead the party. The DP Central Executive Committee will be in Mbale in the coming weeks to oversee the voting process. According to the DP Constitution, the term for party leaders is five years.