Robert Kyagulanyi, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP) party, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has criticized the government's actions after he and his party members were prevented from visiting their detained supporters at Kitalya Prison, where they have been held for over three years.
Kyagulanyi claims that the officers on duty cited instructions from higher authorities, specifically stating that only Johnson Byabashaija, the Prisons boss, had the authority to grant permission for their visit.
Expressing his frustration, Kyagulanyi highlighted the unequal treatment, alleging that while officials of the ruling regime have access to the detainees, opposition members are deliberately denied the same privilege. He further accused the authorities of attempting to coerce the detainees into making false accusations against NUP members.
Kyagulanyi emphasized that the lack of a legal basis for these actions demonstrates the arbitrary nature of the government's orders.
He reiterated his demand for the unconditional release of all political prisoners and called for compensation for the trauma and torture they have endured.
When questioned about the legality of the orders, Kyagulanyi stated, "Denying our fundamental rights to visit and advocate for our comrades based on 'orders from above' is not a legitimate reason," adding, "This blatant disregard for the rule of law highlights the urgent need to free our nation and its institutions from undue influence and abuse of power."
The 13 supporters of the National Unity Platform who are currently held at Kitalya Prison include Bazira Kiwanuka, Fred Luwaga, Hassan Busulwa, Willy Tomusange, Sadat Katongole, Paul Kigongo, Shaban Makale, Kabonge Salongo, Shafiki Nsambya, Fahad Migadde, Moses Mbabazi, and Mahmood Semakula.
These individuals were among the 76 people arrested during a joint security operation in Kamwokya and Kiyembe aimed at recovering copies of army and police uniforms from civilians.
The prosecution alleges that on October 14, 2020, while at Kiyembe in Kampala, the accused individuals were found in possession of uniforms that either contained parts or closely resembled those of security agencies.
According to the security forces, this act goes against guidelines that prohibit the use of marks, accessories, insignia, decorations, and uniforms that are exclusively reserved for the armed forces.