Next weekend marks the somber third anniversary of a tragic episode in Uganda’s recent history.
Following the arrest of opposition leader Bobi Wine in 2020, protests erupted, leading to a series of disappearances that continue to haunt the nation.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) has now released a chilling list of 20 missing individuals, raising questions about accountability and justice.
The list, released by Bobi Wine’s party, NUP, includes names like Isma Ssesaazi, Mustafa Luwemba, and Hassan Mubiru, among others.
Disturbingly, these disappearances occurred in the aftermath of the November 2020 protests.
The protests were triggered by Bobi Wine’s arrest for violating COVID-19 guidelines during his campaign trail.
While the government initially defended the use of force, admitting to over 54 deaths during the protests, investigations later revealed bystanders, including a 15-year-old, among the casualties.
The government’s response to the unrest involved not only quelling the protestors but also a surge in abductions, as hundreds disappeared from various locations.
Common Thread
The common thread in these disappearances is their connection to the November 2020 protests.
Bobi Wine’s arrest set off a chain of events leading to violence, with state actors reportedly responsible for both beatings and deaths.
President Museveni initially attributed the riots to external influence but later acknowledged possible mistakes made by security forces.
Compensation and Legal Response
Despite promises of compensation to affected families, tangible relief remains elusive. A paltry sum was awarded in a case where military actions led to the death of a 15-year-old, highlighting the challenges of seeking justice for the victims’ families.
In the aftermath, opposition MPs are putting pressure on the government to reveal the whereabouts of the missing individuals.
However, the government dismisses their efforts as political maneuvers ahead of the 2026 general election.
The police spokesperson insists the matter is now in the hands of the Attorney General and Parliament.