Leader of the Opposition in Parliament (LoP) Joel Ssenyonyi has called on the public and state institutions to speak out against what he described as the unlawful conduct of Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, following the arrest of former Kampala Mayor Erias Lukwago.
Denouncing Lukwago’s apparent abduction on Monday by men in military uniform, Ssenyonyi said the actions attributed to the military chief had heightened concerns about the safety of government critics and opposition figures.
“Everyone is unsafe with Muhoozi’s behaviour of abducting and torturing Ugandans at will,” Ssenyonyi said.
The arrest of Lukwago, a lawyer and president of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), has drawn criticism from opposition leaders and civil society actors, with questions raised about the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Addressing journalists and more than 10 lawmakers at Parliament on Wednesday, Ssenyonyi said it was important for institutions mandated to uphold the rule of law to act and ensure that all Ugandans are protected.
‘I’ve seen leaders including MPs who sing him praises even when he breaks the law in a wanton manner. I hope that these leaders MPs, ministers can wake up and advise this man against breaking the laws,’ he remarked.
Ssenyonyi noted that politicians, civic activists and religious leaders had previously been arrested or gone missing under unclear circumstances.
According to Ssenyonyi, some individuals who disappeared were later released and charged in court, while others remain unaccounted for years after they were last seen.
He expressed concern about reports of missing persons and called for greater accountability from state institutions.
‘His garbage’
Ssenyonyi also criticised what he described as a tendency by some public officials and institutions to seek the attention or approval of the military chief.
‘I know some of them are seeking his attention and keeping saluting all his garbage but what guarantee do you have that you’re safe?’ he asked.
Even ruling NRM MPs are not safe. Generals are not safe either. He has total disregard for the rule of law.
The opposition NUP party legislator faulted President Museveni for what he termed a lack of action in response to concerns raised about his son’s conduct.
If Gen Muhoozi wants to engage in politics, he should leave the military and compete with us on the political ground,” according to Ssenyonyi.