Dr. Mukose Released After Mulago VIP Wing Arrest Over 'Wandering'

Dr. Moses Mukose, a former commissioner at the Inspectorate of Government, has been released from police custody after spending more than 20 hours detained at Mulago National Referral Hospital. Dr. Mukose, 60, who also holds a leadership position within the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), was apprehended on accusations of “wandering within Level Six” of the hospital’s VIP wing.

His son, Arnold Anthony Mukose, explained that his father had visited his father-in-law, who has been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in the same wing for two weeks. The patient’s room is reportedly located near that of opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye, who is currently under heavy security at the hospital.

Security personnel intercepted Dr. Mukose after he left his father-in-law’s ward. He was accused of attempting to observe security arrangements around Dr. Besigye, who was admitted after collapsing in court and is facing treason charges. Arnold Mukose alleged that police identified his father as a PFF official and claimed he was sent by party mobilizer Ingrid Turinawe to facilitate an escape.

Initially arrested for allegedly disobeying police orders, the charge was later altered to “wandering.” Despite Dr. Mukose’s explanation and his request for verification with hospital staff, he was detained. He has since been released on police bond.

The arrest has sparked criticism from opposition figures and human rights advocates, who have questioned the legality of the detention and the validity of the offense cited on the police bond, noting that “wandering” is not a recognized legal offense in Uganda. This incident follows other reports of opposition leaders being denied access to Dr. Besigye at the hospital, with officials citing standard ICU visitor restrictions.

Read more at The Observer (Uganda).