The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice and accountability for the family of Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, following the lifting of a 68-day security deployment at his residence in Magere, Wakiso District.
In a strongly worded statement signed by ULS President Isaac Ssemakadde and General Secretary Babu Ssali, the Society emphasized that the end of the siege does not alter its earlier commitments made to Kyagulanyi’s wife, Barbara Itungo Kyagulanyi, on 23 January 2026.
“The lifting of the siege changes nothing in our resolve,” the statement reads.
ULS outlined three key undertakings: petitioning a competent court to challenge the house arrest, initiating an independent forensic investigation to secure compensation and remedies for the family, and convening a national dialogue to address broader concerns including systemic repression, enforced disappearances, and political persecution.
The Society noted that these actions are grounded in its constitutional mandate to uphold the rule of law and protect human rights, and are not dependent on the presence or withdrawal of security forces.
Legal proceedings are already underway. ULS, through its Legal Aid Project led by Advocate Benon Makumbi, has filed a case at the Kasangati Chief Magistrate’s Court (Miscellaneous Cause No. 30 of 2026) and is awaiting allocation of a hearing date.
“The Society will not relent, will not be deterred by extraneous developments, and will not accept any compromise that falls short of full accountability,” the statement adds.
Security personnel have since withdrawn from Kyagulanyi’s residence, ending weeks of restricted access. Residents in the area confirmed that police and military presence was lifted, restoring normal movement.
Kyagulanyi, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), is currently abroad engaging international stakeholders on the aftermath of the disputed 15 January presidential election. He has held meetings in Washington, addressed the Geneva Summit, and engaged European Union officials, raising concerns over electoral integrity and human rights.
During his absence, he appointed Lina Zedriga Waru, the party’s Vice President for Western Uganda, as acting president.
Kyagulanyi has rejected the official election results that returned incumbent Yoweri Museveni to office, alleging irregularities in the tallying process. He has also expressed limited confidence in the judiciary, urging supporters to pursue peaceful demonstrations instead of legal redress.
Government officials have dismissed the allegations. ICT Minister Chris Baryomunsi said there are no plans to arrest Kyagulanyi, while Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja described his claims as unfounded and urged him to return to the country.
Meanwhile, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Henry Oryem Okello criticized Kyagulanyi’s international engagements, arguing they are aimed at attracting sympathy rather than addressing domestic issues.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke had not issued an official statement on the matter by press time.
ULS maintained that the lifting of the siege does not diminish its pursuit of justice.
“The rule of law is not negotiable. It applies equally whether a siege is in place or has been lifted. The three accountability promises we made on 23 January 2026 therefore remain,” the statement concludes.
The Society says its focus remains on ensuring accountability, advancing independent investigations, and promoting national dialogue on governance and human rights.
