Edward "Eddie" Sebuufu, the bodyguard of Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine, has been missing for five days, sparking outrage after General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the president's son, claimed responsibility for his detention. Social media campaigns have intensified, demanding Sebuufu's release amid concerns over political repression in the country.
Outrage in Uganda Over General’s Admission of Holding Opposition Bodyguard
Outrage in Uganda Over General’s Admission of Holding Opposition Bodyguard
The confirmation of the detention of Bobi Wine's bodyguard by President Museveni's son has ignited a wave of public anger and calls for his release.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, has stirred outrage across the nation by confirming that he is holding Edward Sebuufu, better known as Eddie Mutwe, the bodyguard of popular opposition leader Bobi Wine. Sebuufu has been unaccounted for since Sunday when he was reportedly abducted by unidentified individuals dressed in both civilian clothes and military gear in Kiwango, central Uganda.
Kainerugaba, who is also the country's military chief, took to social media to share details about Sebuufu's detention, posting his photograph with a newly shaven head and suggesting he was "in my basement." His comments have fueled public anger, prompting many Ugandans to rally under the hashtag #FreeEddieMutwe, demanding the bodyguard's immediate release and denouncing his unlawful detention.
The 51-year-old general has become a controversial figure due to his frequent political statements, raising concerns over military discipline and the implications of his comments in a politically charged atmosphere. Critics speculate that he may be positioning himself for a future leadership role, although President Museveni has denied grooming him for the presidency.
Kainerugaba previously faced backlash for provocative remarks, including a threat to invade neighboring Kenya, forcing his father to step in and apologize. This latest incident escalated when Kainerugaba's post featuring Sebuufu, who has been described as being "violently abducted" by armed men, went viral, further galvanizing opposition supporters.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine urged citizens to unite in a "solidarity" rally on Friday in Kampala, condemning the actions of the military and demanding fairness for political prisoners. He accused Kainerugaba of torturing and dehumanizing the bodyguard, highlighting that this incident reflects a broader pattern of repression against dissenting voices in Uganda.
Civil society organizations, including the Uganda Law Society, have condemned Sebuufu's detention, labeling it part of a systematic endeavor to stifle political opposition. The society expressed concern over the apparent collaboration between military forces and state authorities in suppressing civil freedoms and aspirations for change.
Sebuufu, known for his critical role in Bobi Wine's security, has previously faced multiple arrests, often criticized as politically motivated targeting aimed at undermining opposition movements. As Uganda's political landscape shifts in preparation for the 2026 elections, fears grow over continued crackdowns against dissenters, raising alarms about the future of democracy in the country and the safety of political activists.
