President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has defended the arrest and continued detention of Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira, a Catholic priest from Masaka, saying security agencies acted over the cleric’s alleged involvement with opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
The President said Rev. Fr. Ssekabira was arrested in early December 2025 following what he described as the priest’s association with activities linked to the National Unity Platform (NUP) leader.
He noted that despite appeals from church leaders, he declined to authorize the priest’s release.
Speaking during his victory address on Sunday at Rwakitura, Museveni revealed that he recently met the Bishop of Masaka Diocese, Rt. Rev. Serverus Jjumba, who personally appealed for Fr. Ssekabira’s release.
However, the President said the request was not granted.
Museveni said he told the Bishop that the government’s interest was not to punish anyone but rather to have those involved tell the truth and stop what they are doing.
He further noted that he conveyed a similar message during a meeting with members of the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda, urging religious leaders to help guide what he termed “misled people” away from actions that would attract the intervention of security agencies.
Fr. Ssekabira was initially reported missing, triggering concern among clergy and the public.
However, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) later confirmed that he was in custody over allegations related to subversive activities.
More than two weeks after his disappearance, the priest was produced in court and, on December 23, 2025, charged with money laundering.
He was subsequently remanded as investigations continue.
By Muggaga Kiggwe
19th Jan 2026
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