KAMPALA — Zawedde Lubwama, the wife of opposition leader Erias Lukwago, has criticized what she describes as the muted response from opposition politicians following her husband's arrest by security personnel.
Speaking a day after Lukwago was taken from his home in Wakaliga home, Ms Lubwama expressed disappointment that more opposition leaders and Members of Parliament had not publicly spoken out about the incident.
"I call upon members of the opposition to unite as brothers and sisters and fight for the rights of our people," she said.
"It has been disheartening to see that no one in Parliament is coming out to talk about what has happened to Erias Lukwago."
Ms Lubwama argued that Lukwago has consistently stood in solidarity with fellow opposition politicians whenever they faced arrest, detention or other forms of political pressure, regardless of party affiliation.
According to her, he has often taken the initiative to inquire about detained political leaders and work towards securing solutions on their behalf.
"When one of them is arrested, even if they belong to a different party, he always comes out to inquire and does everything possible to find a solution," she said.
Her remarks appeared directed not only at opposition parties broadly but also at some of Lukwago's closest political allies.
She questioned why more legislators and opposition figures had not publicly raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding his arrest or demanded explanations from the relevant authorities.
The comments come amid growing concern among Lukwago's supporters, family members and legal representatives, who have been seeking information regarding his whereabouts, welfare and access to legal counsel following his arrest.
The incident has also generated significant debate on social media and public forums, with some opposition supporters questioning whether political divisions have weakened collective responses to arrests involving opposition leaders.
Political analysts say the developments could test the cohesion of Uganda's opposition at a time when calls for greater cooperation among opposition groups have become increasingly frequent.
Supporters of a united opposition argue that collective action is necessary when political leaders face arrest or detention, while critics contend that longstanding rivalries and divisions have often undermined coordinated responses.
Ms Lubwama urged opposition leaders to put aside political differences and unite in defence of democratic principles and fundamental rights.
"This is a moment for unity," she said, arguing that the issues surrounding her husband's arrest extend beyond one individual and touch on broader concerns about rights and freedoms.
As of publication, authorities had not publicly responded to the concerns raised by Lukwago's family. Efforts to establish further details regarding the circumstances of his arrest and detention were ongoing.
The developments have intensified public discussion about opposition unity, civil liberties and the treatment of political actors in Uganda, with supporters continuing to demand greater transparency regarding Lukwago's status and welfare.