Masaka, Uganda | The courtroom fell into a stunned silence on Tuesday morning as Edward Ssebuufu, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe, recounted the harrowing conditions he endured while in military custody, declaring before the Masaka High Court: “I take 12 painkillers every day.”

Mutwe, who was serving as Robert Kyagulanyi’s bodyguard, added: “I am dying. I feel terrible pain.”

“If they must cut off my arms, let it be done now so that I can have a chance to receive some medical treatment.” 

Mutwe made the statement during his appearance alongside fellow National Unity Platform (NUP) activists Achileo Kivumbi, Gaddafi Mugumya, and Smart Wakabi, as they face aggravated robbery charges.  

Tuesday’s session was marked by heightened security and emotional scenes as the accused were brought into court under tight guard. Their legal team, led by prominent human rights lawyers Samuel Muyizzi, Benjamin Katana, and George Musisi, is seeking medical treatment for the suspects and pressing for their immediate release, citing illegal detention and torture.

According to the charge sheet, the accused allegedly committed robbery during a chaotic procession following the burial of former Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya on April 24, 2025.
The state claims the group used violence to rob a civilian of a mobile phone and cash in Masaka District.

The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) earlier this month issued an official release order for Mutwe, declaring his detention unlawful.

However, the order was rejected by the military. Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba dismissed the letter as “stupid” in a post on X and demanded an apology from the Commission. 

The High Court session is expected to resume on Wednesday to hear bail arguments and receive medical reports on the detainees’ condition.

Outside the courtroom, dozens of NUP supporters gathered to show solidarity

by ChimpReports