The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, has renewed calls for the government to account for missing persons, saying cases of alleged abductions and enforced disappearances are violations of Uganda’s Constitution and the rule of law.
Speaking during Tuesday’s parliamentary sitting chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Ssenyonyi raised a matter of national importance, demanding an official explanation from government regarding the whereabouts of several Ugandans reported missing.
He cited the cases of Christopher Godi, also known as King Zare, who allegedly disappeared on April 21; Baliza William, who has reportedly been missing since February 10; and Sam Mugumya, whose whereabouts Ssenyonyi said remain unknown nearly a year after his reported disappearance.
Ssenyonyi argued that if the individuals are suspected of committing criminal offences, they should be arrested and produced before a competent court rather than being held incommunicado.
He also questioned government officials who dismissed videos allegedly showing Sam Mugumya in poor health as artificial intelligence-generated content. Ssenyonyi said the best way to address public concern would be for authorities to produce Mugumya in court if he is in lawful custody.
The Opposition leader further alleged that some detainees have been subjected to torture, citing the case of Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi. He claimed that the legislator was allegedly detained for 19 days before being presented in court with injuries documented in a police medical report.
Ssenyonyi also referred to recent remarks by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, condemning torture, and called on the government to ensure that anyone found responsible for human rights violations is held accountable in accordance with the law.
He emphasized that respect for due process and the protection of citizens’ rights are essential to maintaining public trust in state institutions.
By Francis Lubega
4th Aug 2026
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