Matembe narrowly escapes alleged abduction attempt at home

Human rights activist and former Ethics Minister Miriam Matembe reportedly had a close call with potential arrest or abduction when security operatives allegedly entered her home in Luzira. The incident occurred on Wednesday morning while Matembe was away from her residence.

According to her husband, Mr. Nkemia Matembe, a group of individuals, including two women in civilian clothing and two masked soldiers in uniform accompanied by a civilian man, entered their compound. The women reportedly proceeded into the house and searched areas near the bedrooms without identifying themselves or their purpose.

Mr. Matembe described the event as “traumatic,” noting that the operatives did not knock before entering, and the women did not respond when questioned. The operatives reportedly searched the master bedroom before leaving the premises. Matembe herself confirmed she was alerted to the incident and expressed concerns for her safety, stating she was in hiding.

The precise motive for the alleged search remains unclear. However, the incident follows Matembe’s recent public criticism of the arrest and detention of former Kampala mayor Erias Lukwago, where she advocated for Ugandans to be treated with dignity.

Sources close to the situation suggest that security operatives may have been searching for Matembe. Efforts to get a statement from military spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi were unsuccessful by press time.

This event has added to growing worries about the detention of opposition figures and government critics in Uganda.

https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/an-inch-from-handcuffs-matembe-s-harrowing-near-arrest-5508332