National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter Olivia Lutaaya has been released from detention after spending nearly a year in custody over charges of unlawful drilling, bringing an end to her latest period of detention linked to her activities within the opposition party.
Lutaaya was arrested on November 7, 2025, in Mbarara District during a confrontation between security personnel and supporters of NUP presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, as they travelled to Bwizibwera for their final campaign rally.
She was among more than 90 NUP supporters arrested during campaign activities in western Uganda, including members of Kyagulanyi’s personal security team.
Following her arrest, Lutaaya was charged with unlawful drilling and added to an existing case involving several opposition figures and party supporters.
The charges stem from a birthday celebration organised for Kyagulanyi, during which NUP supporters, popularly known as foot soldiers, staged a surprise event featuring a military-style parade and songs of praise.
The event attracted the attention of security authorities, with the Chief of Defence Forces warning that such activities were unlawful. Several people who participated in the parade were subsequently arrested, including Kyagulanyi’s brother, Fred Nyanzi, who was identified as one of the organisers and was later released.
Lutaaya’s latest release marks another chapter in her long-running legal troubles linked to her involvement in opposition politics.
She first gained national attention during the 2021 general election period when she was arrested and detained over charges before a military court.
In 2024, she was among several opposition supporters pardoned by President Yoweri Museveni, following which she regained her freedom.
However, her freedom was short-lived. She was arrested again on November 7, 2025, during the election campaign period and charged in connection with the unlawful drilling case.
Her latest release comes amid continued attention on the arrests and prosecution of opposition supporters over activities associated with the 2025 election campaigns.
