Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, has raised serious allegations against Uganda’s military. According to him, his chief bodyguard, Edward Ssebufu (popularly known as Eddie Mutwe), endured torture in military detention. Speaking outside Masaka Main Prison on May 7, he claimed Ssebufu was waterboarded, electrocuted, and beaten until he passed out.
Ssebufu went missing on April 27. Over a week later, he appeared in court on May 5. During that period, he suffered extensive physical and mental harm. As a result, his current condition is critical.
“He cannot sleep. He’s in constant pain,” Kyagulanyi said. “The prison clinic lacks the capacity to treat him. Therefore, we are asking the public to demand immediate justice.”
NUP Claims Charges Are Politically Motivated
Currently, Ssebufu faces charges alongside three other NUP members. These include robbery, assault, and malicious damage. All of them remain detained at Masaka Main Prison.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) strongly believes the charges are designed to disrupt the opposition. Moreover, they say the government is targeting Bobi Wine’s inner circle ahead of the 2026 general election. Kyagulanyi, who has declared his intention to run against President Museveni, sees this as a deliberate political attack.
David Lewis Rubongoya, the party’s Secretary General, confirmed Ssebufu’s account of the torture. He said soldiers gagged him and poured water over his face to simulate drowning.
“He thought that was the end,” Rubongoya noted. “This kind of cruelty creates more trauma than justice.”
Legal Team Plans Immediate Action
Meanwhile, Ssebufu’s legal team has taken steps to secure his release. Lawyer George Musisi stated they are filing for bail and requesting an urgent medical report. Furthermore, they plan to challenge the charges in court based on human rights violations.
In addition, Ssebufu’s mother, Jane Nantumbwe, made a heartfelt plea to the government.
“We’re not afraid of the court process,” she said. “However, he must be treated first. No one should face trial in that condition.”
Journalists Receive Mixed Reactions
Earlier, Kyagulanyi had mistakenly accused journalist Gertrude Mutyaba of aiding the arrests. On May 7, he issued a public apology, acknowledging the error. He also thanked journalists like Farish Magembe, who condemned the violence and refused to support government narratives.
“Journalists should never be our enemies,” Kyagulanyi said. “Instead, they are vital in exposing the truth.”
Understanding the Charges
The charges stem from an incident on May 18, 2024. Authorities claim Ssebufu and his team robbed journalist Margaret Kayondo in Lwengo District. Reportedly, they took her sweater and phone after threatening her with sharp objects.
Additionally, Zainab Namusazi, a correspondent for NBS TV, said they damaged her camera worth Shs1.5 million. Other victims claim they lost mobile phones, money, and IDs during the same event.
However, the defense team argues that these charges are false and meant to justify the earlier torture.
A Larger Test for Uganda’s Democracy
The case of Edward Ssebufu torture in military detention has captured public attention. Many view it as part of a larger trend of oppression and political intimidation in Uganda.
With elections approaching in 2026, human rights defenders and political analysts are watching closely. This case may determine whether Uganda can uphold justice and democratic principles under increasing pressure.
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