Amuria District Woman MP Maggie Etilu has confirmed her release after nearly three weeks in what she described as unlawful detention.
Etilu announced her freedom in a post on her X account at 6:28pm on Thursday. She thanked Ugandans and several groups that had demanded her release and prayed for her safety.
“I thank all Ugandans, the Church, human rights activists, MPs, and my electorates for standing with me and praying during my unlawful detention since 23rd May 2026. I am now free. May God abundantly bless you all,” Etilu posted.
Parliament had demanded answers
Her announcement came a day after Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Vice-President Jessica Rose Alupo assured Parliament that Etilu would regain her freedom within the week.
The assurance followed pressure from Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi. He had asked the government to explain Etilu’s disappearance.
Ssenyonyi also demanded accountability for other Ugandans reportedly missing under unclear circumstances.
The opposition has repeatedly accused authorities of failing to address alleged enforced disappearances and unlawful detentions. It has urged the government to disclose the whereabouts of people allegedly held without due process.
Etilu gives no details on detention
Although Etilu confirmed her release, she did not reveal where she had been held.
She also did not explain the circumstances of her detention or say whether authorities had preferred any charges against her.
Her disappearance had triggered concern among fellow legislators, civil society organisations, religious leaders, human rights activists and voters in Amuria District.
Many had called for her immediate release or asked authorities to disclose her whereabouts.
By Thursday evening, the government had not issued an official statement explaining Etilu’s detention or release.
Speculation had linked her disappearance to ongoing investigations into alleged illicit wealth accumulation connected to former Speaker Anita Annet Among. However, officials have not confirmed any link.
