Leaders of the National Unity Platform (NUP) are demanding urgent medical intervention and legal action for their detained members, who they say are languishing in Masaka prison without trial due to a nationwide lawyers’ strike.
During a visit to the prison, Kampala City Council Speaker Zahrah Luyirika and lawyer Zikusooka Herbert expressed grave concern over the detainees’ worsening health and lack of access to justice, particularly highlighting the case of Eddie Mutwe, a longtime aide and bodyguard to NUP president Bobi Wine.
"At this point, we don't even know the status of their cases," said Zikusooka. "We're here to give them hope."
Zikusooka revealed that despite a court order permitting Mutwe’s transfer to Luzira Upper Prison for advanced medical care, prison authorities have yet to comply.
“Authorities here have failed to act on the court order. Eddie Mutwe needs urgent medical attention,” he said.
Speaker Luyirika echoed the concerns, describing the condition of the prisoners as “deeply worrying.”
“Eddie Mutwe’s health is deteriorating, and he needs proper treatment,” she said. “The general welfare of these prisoners is disturbing. They need emotional support and medical attention.”
Among the 17 detainees are Bobi Wine’s close associates, including Gaddafi Mugumya, Achilleo Kivumbi, Grace Wakabi, and others arrested during the Sebina Cup football tournament in Nyendo.
NUP leaders say the broader justice system has stalled, leaving their supporters in legal limbo. The ongoing industrial action by lawyers has severely disrupted court operations nationwide, delaying hearings and bail applications.
Rose Nalubowa, another NUP official who joined the prison visit, called on authorities to act swiftly.
“We ask that our people’s situation be looked into seriously. Their lives and rights matter,” she said.
The group hopes their appeal will pressure the judiciary and Uganda Prisons Service to immediately respond to the detainees’ medical and legal needs.