Kenya, Sept. 8 -- Armed men abducted Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, deputy spokesperson for Uganda's National Unity Platform, outside Kawempe Magistrates Court in Kampala on Monday morning, intensifying fears over opposition safety ahead of the 2026 elections.
The incident unfolded as Mufumbiro left a hearing for fellow NUP members charged with unlawful military drilling, part of a broader crackdown on figures linked to party leader Bobi Wine.
Party officials swiftly condemned the Mufumbiro abduction as state-sponsored repression, highlighting a disturbing pattern of targeting critics that raises urgent concerns for his well-being and the state of political freedoms in Uganda.
The Mufumbiro abduction occurred in broad daylight, with witnesses describing how unidentified armed individuals swiftly grabbed him amid the bustling court vicinity. As a key voice for NUP, Mufumbiro has been instrumental in articulating the party's stance against government overreach, making him a visible target recently.
This event ties into ongoing tensions, where opposition activists face arrests and disappearances during court proceedings or public gatherings. NUP leaders, including Bobi Wine, have rallied supporters to demand immediate action, viewing the abduction as a calculated move to silence dissent before the crucial 2026 polls.
Uganda's political landscape has seen a rise in such incidents, with NUP supporters enduring heightened scrutiny since the party's strong showing in 2021. The Kawempe Magistrates Court hearing involved charges against party members accused of illegal training, a claim NUP dismisses as fabricated to undermine their mobilisation efforts.
Mufumbiro's role in defending these cases amplified his profile, turning the court exit into a flashpoint for the abduction. Social media erupted with calls for justice, as users shared details of the Mufumbiro abduction to amplify global awareness and pressure authorities for his safe return.
The timing of the Mufumbiro abduction underscores the escalating stakes for opposition voices in Uganda. With 2026 elections approaching, NUP has ramped up community engagements, only to face intensified security responses.
Party statements emphasise that the case fits a broader strategy to intimidate activists, echoing past cases where detained figures endured prolonged uncertainty. Human rights advocates have joined the fray, urging international observers to closely monitor the situation.
As the search for Mufumbiro continues, NUP remains steadfast in its push for accountability. The abduction has galvanised members, turning personal peril into a rallying point for broader democratic reforms. Uganda's citizens watch closely, hoping for swift resolution that upholds justice and protects political expression.
In conclusion, the Mufumbiro abduction outside Kawempe Magistrates Court marks a stark escalation in the crackdown on NUP, fuelling demands for his immediate release and an end to repressive tactics. This incident, tied to charges against party members and the shadow of the 2026 elections, highlights the resilience needed to champion change in Uganda's dynamic political arena.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.