Outcry in Uganda Over Opposition Bodyguard's Detention by President's Son

The detention of Eddie Mutwe, an opposition bodyguard, has triggered significant public anger in Uganda, particularly following the comments from General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of the president. Calls for justice and solidarity are growing as the opposition denounces what they describe as politically motivated repression.

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of Uganda's president, has confirmed that he is holding Eddie Mutwe, a bodyguard for prominent opposition leader Bobi Wine, who has been missing for five days. Mutwe, also known as Edward Sebuufu, was reportedly taken from Kiwango by unidentified individuals dressed in civilian attire and military fatigues, leading to widespread public outrage. Kainerugaba posted on social media, stating that Mutwe was "in my basement" and shared a photo of him with a clean-shaven head, igniting a social media storm under the hashtag #FreeEddieMutwe.

Critics of Kainerugaba argue his frequent political comments undermine military discipline and etiquette. The general has been in the headlines before for controversial statements, including remarks about a potential invasion of neighboring Kenya and threats against opposition leaders. His latest comments about Mutwe's condition, claiming he was being taught Runyankore while in custody, have been met with criticism and calls for his release, without any formal charges disclosed.

Bobi Wine, who has declared an intent to challenge President Yoweri Museveni in the 2026 elections, has labeled the detention "illegal" and called for a solidarity rally in Kampala. He alleged that Mutwe was abducted violently from Kiwango and accused Kainerugaba of torturing and dehumanizing his bodyguard. Bobi Wine urged Ugandans to unite against what he calls a systematic effort to stifle political dissent.

The Uganda Law Society has also spoken out, demanding the immediate release of Mutwe and highlighting concerns about a broader campaign against opposition voices in the country. They raise alarms about the implications of military involvement in political repression, which poses a significant risk to civil liberties. Mutwe, as Bobi Wine's personal security detail member, has faced multiple arrests linked to his political affiliations and has been charged with various offenses, raising suspicions about the motives behind such actions.

With the political atmosphere growing increasingly tense ahead of the upcoming elections, concerns are mounting about the systematic targeting of opposition figures and supporters by security forces in Uganda.