The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has said that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is holding Sam Mugumya, a political analyst and former aide to opposition politician Dr Kizza Besigye, who has been missing since August 2025.
“People are feeling sorry for Mugumya’s legs? Yes, I have Sam Mugumya. He is fine. But I will execute him soon,” Gen Muhoozi said in a post on X.
Mugumya was reportedly taken by armed men in plain clothes on August 26, 2025, while at a hotel in Nyamitanga, Mbarara. His family, lawyers and political associates have since sought information about his whereabouts and legal status.
The reported abduction triggered legal proceedings, with the High Court in Kampala issuing a writ of habeas corpus in September 2025 directing authorities to produce Mugumya before a competent court. The court said the order was intended to establish the lawfulness of his alleged detention.
Security agencies had previously denied holding Mugumya. The UPDF has also previously disputed claims that he was in military custody.
The latest development follows the circulation of video footage on social media purportedly showing Mugumya in a visibly frail condition and struggling to walk.
The footage renewed concerns about Mugumya’s welfare and prompted fresh calls for authorities to clarify his whereabouts and condition.
On September 30, 2026, the Uganda Law Society (ULS) said it would engage relevant United Nations special procedures on enforced and involuntary disappearances over the case.
ULS Vice President Anthony Asiimwe said the international intervention would complement, rather than replace, efforts by Mugumya’s lawyers and would seek independent scrutiny of the case.
Mugumya’s family has repeatedly sought his release or production before a court if authorities have a lawful case against him. His mother, Edinansi Katungwesi, previously petitioned the Uganda Law Society for assistance in establishing her son’s whereabouts after months without information about him.
