The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called on Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba to transfer opposition figure Edward Ssebuufu, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe, to the Police for lawful prosecution instead of detaining him incommunicado under military custody.
Speaking at the opening of this year’s Buganda Lukiiko at Bulange, Mengo, Mayiga underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and warned against politically driven arrests and arbitrary detentions.
“In such matters, due process must be respected. Let investigations be conducted by the Police and the courts deliver justice,” Mayiga said, in reference to Gen Muhoozi’s recent confirmation that Mutwe, the chief bodyguard of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), was being held by the military.
Mutwe had been reported missing since April 27 until Muhoozi admitted on social media that he was being detained at Makindye Military Barracks, allegedly to be “taught Runyankore” and “understand the NRM’s national mission.”
Muhoozi also shared a photograph showing a visibly distressed, shirtless, and clean-shaven Mutwe, sparking outrage from human rights groups and opposition leaders.
The National Unity Platform (NUP), with which Mutwe is affiliated, condemned the photo and Muhoozi’s remarks as clear signs of torture and state-sponsored abuse.
NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya and party president Bobi Wine both condemned the detention and called on Ugandans to stand in solidarity with political prisoners like Mutwe.
Addressing growing political tensions ahead of the 2026 elections, Mayiga rejected claims of rising tribalism, urging Ugandans to resist divisive rhetoric.
“We must not let tribalism divide us,” he warned. “Unity and vigilance are crucial in these times.”
He also advised government institutions to avoid unlawful practices like abductions and politicized law enforcement, warning that such conduct could jeopardize national unity.
In his broader Lukiiko address, the Katikkiro also focused on Buganda’s development priorities, with a strong emphasis on agriculture. He raised concerns about issues like the distribution of fake coffee seedlings, substandard inputs, and theft, which continue to undermine farmers in the region.
“Our farmers deserve quality support,” Mayiga said. “There is an urgent need for coordinated action to ensure the right inputs and protect livelihoods.”
The Lukiiko meeting brought together Buganda ministers and citizens, reinforcing the kingdom’s commitment to justice, accountability, and inclusive progress.
Mayiga’s message arrives amid heightened concern over the military’s role in political affairs and growing evidence of rights violations shared openly by government officials. His appeal for lawful conduct and unity adds to the national demand for a return to constitutional order and respect for human rights.
