NUP pressures Balaam to return missing supporters

The leadership of the National Unity Platform (NUP) is demanding that State Minister for Youths and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, fulfils his promise to return 18 NUP supporters who have been missing for four years.

Balaam had made this commitment after his recent swearing-in as minister.

The call for action came after revelations in the High Court by the state attorney that investigations have only accounted for the whereabouts of 6 out of the 18 missing persons, leaving the rest unaccounted for.

In a session held in Judge Esta Nambayo’s chambers today, relatives of the missing NUP supporters and their legal representatives gathered to discuss the case they filed demanding the return of their loved ones.

Judge Nambayo expressed disappointment at the lack of progress in resolving the matter despite its high profile and extensive engagement by various levels of leadership.

Lawyer George Musisi emphasised that the affidavits provided by the state clearly indicate the government's procrastination in addressing the issue.

He urged Minister Balaam to honor his commitment to advocating for the release of all political prisoners, as he had promised upon assuming office.

Balaam has been given a 14-day ultimatum to address the situation, although some relatives of the abducted individuals doubt his ability to fulfil this pledge given previous failures by his superiors.

Minister Balaam declined to comment when contacted on known phone numbers.

According to sworn affidavits from state witnesses, including police officer Sylvia Kasoga, soldier Rashidah Naluzze, Major Paul Ajara Mukungu of CMI, and soldier Ntabu Joel, only six of the missing persons have been located.

The whereabouts of the remaining 12 individuals remain unknown. Notably, among the missing is John Bosco Kibalama, whom Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Minister Jeje Odongo initially confirmed to be in government custody but later denied holding.

The court is scheduled to reconvene on April 24, to further address the matter.