Uganda Law Society Denounces Kivumbi Re-arrest, Cites Systemic Abuse

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has expressed strong condemnation following the re-arrest of Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, Deputy President of the National Unity Platform (NUP) for Buganda and former MP. The organization described the incident as representative of a disturbing increase in abductions and enforced disappearances that undermine Uganda’s legal framework and democratic principles.

In a statement released on July 10, 2026, the ULS voiced grave alarm over reports that Kivumbi was apprehended in Mpigi District barely a day after being granted bail by the International Crimes Division of the High Court. His family reported the incident to the ULS, confirming that his location remained unknown and no security agency had provided a legal justification for his arrest or detention.

The ULS statement linked Kivumbi’s re-arrest to recent public remarks by President Yoweri Museveni, which appeared to tacitly approve of escalating state repression, including abductions, torture, and politically motivated prosecutions. Kivumbi was reportedly intercepted at a roadblock in Mpigi while traveling home after five months of remand on terrorism charges, which he denies.

Eyewitness accounts describe Kivumbi’s vehicle being stopped by police and UPDF personnel. Despite not resisting, he was taken into a waiting vehicle and driven away, with attempts by journalists and supporters to follow being blocked. His re-arrest occurred shortly after hundreds of supporters gathered to welcome him home.

The ULS emphasized that such actions constitute serious violations of constitutional and international law, specifically citing the right to liberty and protection from arbitrary arrest enshrined in Article 23 of the Constitution. The targeting of a political party official after release on bail is seen as a direct assault on multiparty democracy and judicial independence.

The Law Society is demanding that security agencies reveal Kivumbi’s whereabouts and the legal grounds for his detention. They are also calling for his immediate appearance in court with access to legal counsel and family, and an end to the pattern of abductions.

Furthermore, the ULS announced a peaceful demonstration, “Occupy the Judiciary,” scheduled for July 17, 2026, at the Judiciary Headquarters. Participants plan to petition judicial heads regarding the President’s address and the perceived use of courts to legitimize state repression.

This article is based on information from Nile Post.