The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has announced significant progress in its investigation into claims that Edward Ssebuufu, popularly known as Eddy Mutwe, was tortured while in state custody before being presented in court. Mutwe, who serves as the head of security for opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu of the National Unity Platform (NUP), was allegedly abducted and held incommunicado for weeks without being taken to court within the legally required timeframe.

The case gained national attention after Mutwe appeared in court with visible signs of distress. He told the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Masaka that he had endured severe and degrading treatment while in detention. A photo circulating on social media reportedly showed him in a basement allegedly linked to Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, where the torture is said to have taken place. At the time, his family had no information about his whereabouts, sparking outrage among human rights activists and the public.

In May, Magistrate Abdallah Kayiza committed Mutwe to the High Court to face charges including robbery and malicious damage to property. However, the delay in bringing him to trial and the allegations of mistreatment raised serious concerns about due process and human rights violations.

Pauline Nansamba Mutumba, the UHRC’s Director of Legal Affairs, confirmed that the Commission launched an investigation as soon as reports of Mutwe’s disappearance emerged. She stated that the UHRC has since recorded a formal statement from Mutwe and interviewed his family, political associates, and close friends. While the Commission continues to investigate the circumstances of his disappearance and alleged torture, Mutumba clarified that any claims of mistreatment after Mutwe was remanded to prison now fall under the jurisdiction of the courts.

Human rights organizations have strongly condemned the alleged torture and called for accountability. Robert Kirenga, Executive Director of the National Coalition of Human Rights Defenders Uganda, urged the public to speak out against such abuses. He emphasized that public pressure is essential in preventing further violations and protecting detainees from mistreatment.

In a joint press conference held earlier today, the UHRC, along with civil society groups including the Coalition Against Torture and the African Centre for Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture Victims, pledged to continue engaging with political leaders, security agencies, and other stakeholders. Their goal is to ensure that the 2026 general elections are conducted in an environment free from torture, intimidation, and human rights abuses.

UHRC Commissioner Chrispin Kahweru stressed that Uganda already has strong laws against torture but noted that the real challenge lies in enforcement. He called for greater commitment from authorities to uphold these laws and hold perpetrators accountable.

As Uganda prepares to observe the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture next Thursday, the case of Eddy Mutwe serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle to eliminate torture and ensure justice for victims. Human rights advocates hope that this investigation will lead to concrete actions to prevent similar abuses in the future.

The UHRC’s findings will be closely watched, as they could set an important precedent in addressing allegations of torture and unlawful detention in the country. For now, Mutwe’s case remains a focal point in the broader fight for human rights and accountability in Uganda.