Balaam Demands Forensic Investigation into Muvawala Kidnap
Muvawala went missing on Wednesday and resurfaced on Friday with allegations that he had been kidnapped and latter abandoned in Buliisa but government apologists suspect self-kidnap
The State Minister for Youth, Balaam Barugahara, has called for an immediate forensic investigation into the alleged kidnapping of Charles Bukenya, also known as Muvawala, the Vice President of the Uganda National Non-Governmental Organisations Association (UNNA) and a National Unity Platform (NUP) mobilizer.
Muvawala resurfaced on Friday, claiming he was abducted and dumped in a swamp in Buliisa District after enduring several hours of torture.
The news of Muvawala’s abduction spread rapidly on Wednesday, with many speculating that security operatives might be behind the kidnapping.
Family members searched for him in vain, and an official statement from defence and military spokesperson Felix Kulayigye dismissed the allegations, calling them baseless and without substantial evidence.
In response, Minister Balaam took to his X platform, demanding that security agencies thoroughly investigate the matter to restore public trust.
“Allegations of this nature are deeply disturbing and warrant immediate attention. If true, such actions would tarnish the reputation of our government and undermine the trust of our citizens. Those responsible must be held accountable,” Balaam wrote.
He also emphasised the need for a thorough forensic investigation to uncover the truth.
Balaam further raised concerns over the possibility of self-motives behind the allegations, expressing strong condemnation for any form of self-kidnapping and urging that the integrity and peaceful image of the country be preserved.
“I know the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) will leave no stone unturned until the truth of this matter is established,” he added.
The President of the National Unity Platform, Robert Kyagulanyi, also confirmed Muvawala’s release on his X platform, stating that the victim had been severely traumatized by the ordeal.
Kyagulanyi shared details of his phone conversation with Muvawala, who confirmed that he was abducted early Wednesday morning and later dumped in a swamp in Buliisa District.
He added that Muvawala had been tortured by his captors, leaving him gravely shaken by the experience.
Kyagulanyi called on the public to unite against the lawlessness that continues to affect the country.
The allegations continue to draw widespread concern, with both government officials and opposition leaders calling for accountability and a full investigation into the incident.
