The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has ordered the Chief of Defence Forces, General Kainerigaba Muhoozi to immediately release Edward Rogers Ssebuufu, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe, from detention.
In a release order dated May 2, 2025, UHRC Chairperson Mariam Wangadya directed the Chief of Defence Forces to ensure the prompt release of Ssebuufu, who has been in military custody at Mbuya, Kampala since April 26, 2025.
The Commission stated that after reviewing the circumstances of the case, it was satisfied that Ssebuufu was being unlawfully detained or restricted.
Quoting Article 53(2)(a) of the Constitution and Rule 31 of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (Complaints Procedure) Rules, the UHRC emphasized that continued detention without lawful justification would expose the authorities to contempt proceedings under Article 53(1)(d) of the Constitution.
Ssebuufu, who is widely known as Eddie Mutwe, is the chief Bodyguard of Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the president of the National Unity Platform-NUP party. His arrest and detention have sparked public concern and calls from various rights groups for his release.
The UHRC’s directive is seen as a strong reaffirmation of constitutional protections against unlawful detention and the Commission’s commitment to upholding human rights.
The Ministry of Defence and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) had not responded to the release order by press time.