Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has confirmed that Eddie Mutwe, the main bodyguard of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, is being detained.
The detention follows a statement from NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya on Wednesday, who said Mutwe was taken by armed men from Mbalwa in Mukono District. Since then, no one knew where Mutwe was.
General Kainerugaba posted on X, previously called Twitter, to confirm that Mutwe is in custody. He suggested that Mutwe’s appearance has changed during detention, including the removal of his beard. Kainerugaba also mentioned that Mutwe is being disciplined and described him as looking neat and organized. However, he did not say where Mutwe is being held or provide details about the legal reasons for the detention.
Bobi Wine responded briefly on X, indicating that the situation will become clear in time.
As of Thursday evening, no official information has come from the Uganda Police Force, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), or other government agencies about Mutwe’s situation. No charges against Mutwe have been made public.
NUP leaders have demanded answers about Mutwe’s detention. They want the government to explain where he is and, if he is in lawful custody, to bring him to court. One NUP official stated that the government must follow the law in handling Mutwe’s case.
Eddie Mutwe has been arrested several times before. He has been an important part of Bobi Wine’s security team since the People Power movement began. Mutwe’s role has made him a key figure in protecting the NUP leader during public events and political activities.
The lack of clear information about Mutwe’s detention has raised concerns among NUP supporters and human rights groups. They are calling for transparency and accountability from the authorities. For now, the situation remains uncertain, and many are waiting for an official update from the government.