Politics 1 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Parliament Demands Answers on Missing Persons, Grants Government Two Weeks
Uganda's Parliament has given the government a two-week ultimatum to provide an account for opposition activist Sam Mugumya and other missing individuals, following concerns raised by the Opposition about alleged abductions and torture. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/parliament-gives-govt-two-weeks-to-account-for-mugumya-other-missing-persons-5616226
The Ugandan Parliament has set a strict two-week deadline for the government to present a comprehensive report on the whereabouts of several missing persons, including prominent opposition figure Sam Mugumya. The demand comes after the Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, highlighted the growing concern over alleged abductions and detentions without trial.
Mugumya, a former aide to detained politician Dr. Kizza Besigye, was reportedly abducted in August 2025, and recent social media circulating images suggest he is in a distressed and disabled state while still allegedly in custody. The military has previously denied holding him, despite witness accounts indicating operatives in uniform were involved in his disappearance.
Ssenyonyi also brought to light the case of Christopher Godi, alias King Zale, who has been missing since April 10, and Eria Jjengo, a journalist. These cases, alongside claims from a former intelligence officer detailing alleged torture facilities, have intensified calls for governmental accountability.
Government Chief Whip Jane Ruth Aceng acknowledged receiving the list of missing persons from the Opposition and assured Parliament that the government would investigate. She requested the two-week period to gather the necessary information.
Speaker Jacob Markson Oboth emphasized the seriousness of the matter, directing the government to treat it with urgency. He also indicated Parliament’s intention to schedule a dedicated debate on human rights issues once the government is prepared. Ssenyonyi, while welcoming the deadline, expressed apprehension that more individuals might disappear before the government returns with its report, stressing that the rule of law should apply to all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
As of Thursday evening, Ugandan authorities had not issued a formal response to the specific allegations presented in a viral video by a former intelligence officer.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)