Eddie Ssebuufu, widely known as Eddie Mutwe and the head of security for National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, has been committed to High Court to face assault-related charges stemming from events in Lwengo District.
A dramatic session unfolded at noon on Monday in Masaka, where Ssebuufu appeared before Grade One Magistrate Abudallah Kayiza.
The courtroom was tense, filled with visible worry from family members and supporters concerned about his deteriorating health.
Ssebuufu, who had been in custody for several days, appeared weak and in distress.
Court reporters noted that he struggled to walk and looked frail, a stark contrast to his formerly energetic public image.
“I was brought here bleeding, and yet no one came to my help,” Ssebuufu told the court. “My arms feel completely lifeless—like they’ve rotted away. I can’t even lift them anymore. The pain is unbearable.”
His words silenced the courtroom. Many attendees, including his mother, broke into tears. Several were seen wiping their faces, visibly shaken by his condition.
Human rights lawyer Samuel Muyizzi, who is leading Ssebuufu’s defence, appealed for his immediate transfer to a facility with proper medical care.
“It is clear to everyone who has seen our client that his health is in a deplorable state,” Muyizzi said.
“Keeping him in his current condition under such poor prison facilities amounts to inhumane treatment. We appeal to this honourable court to transfer him to Luzira Prison, where he can at least receive the necessary medical attention.”
Speaking after Eddie Mutwe's first court appearance last week, Kyagulanyi said his personal bodyguard and friend was stripped naked, electrocuted, and forced to salute a picture of Museveni daily.
“They stripped him naked and shaved off his beard while mocking him,” Kyagulanyi said.
“He still can’t walk properly. He was also injected with unknown substances three times. He doesn’t know what they did to his body.”
After a brief adjournment, Ssebuufu’s mother also addressed the court directly.
“My son is suffering,” she said tearfully. “He was once a strong man, but now he’s walking with sticks. Please, if there’s any humanity left, allow him to be taken somewhere he can be treated. No mother wants to see their child in this state.”
Magistrate Kayiza then suspended proceedings for two hours to deliberate.
Upon reconvening, he ruled that Ssebuufu be committed to the High Court for trial and ordered his immediate transfer to Luzira Prison, citing the need for access to better medical facilities.
Six charges were read out, including one count of aggravated assault.
While other suspects linked to the same case, including Achileo Kivumbi, had earlier been processed with less attention, Ssebuufu’s appearance drew wide public concern due to his affiliation with the NUP and his troubling physical state.
The High Court is expected to set a trial date in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Ssebuufu’s condition has reignited concerns over the treatment of political detainees in Uganda’s justice system.