Vianne Bashabe, a National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter from Hoima, has resurfaced after 12 days of alleged incommunicado detention, claiming he was tortured by Uganda’s military intelligence.
Bashabe, who was reportedly abducted on March 6, says he was held at Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI) facilities, where he endured beatings and psychological abuse before his release on Tuesday.
NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, in a statement, revealed that Bashabe was subjected to relentless beatings, particularly on the soles of his feet, during interrogations about his support for the opposition.
Defying Gag Orders: Bashabe Speaks Out
Despite being ordered to renounce his political beliefs and remain silent, Bashabe immediately reported to NUP offices to expose his ordeal.
“After nearly two weeks of brutal treatment, Bashabe was released on the condition that he renounce his political beliefs and refrain from speaking out,” Kyagulanyi said. “However, he defied the gag order and is determined to expose the truth.”
Bashabe also disclosed that he was detained alongside fellow NUP supporters Hussein Mumbya and Shakur Ssentongo, who remain in custody. Reports suggest both have suffered severe torture, with one unable to stand.
NUP Condemns Government Crackdown
Kyagulanyi condemned the alleged crackdown on political dissent, vowing to continue the fight for freedom.
“The crimes they commit against us only make us stronger and give us more reason to fight for our redemption. Uganda will be free!” he declared.
Over the years, NUP and human rights organizations have documented numerous cases of opposition activists being abducted, detained without trial, or subjected to extrajudicial imprisonment.
Reports from Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have accused Ugandan security forces of using torture and forced disappearances to silence critics of President Museveni’s regime.
Government Responds with Skepticism
When contacted for comment, Acting Defence Public Information Officer Chris Magezi neither confirmed nor denied Bashabe’s allegations.
In a brief WhatsApp response, Magezi questioned the authenticity of the claims.
“Are you sure he has been missing for 12 days? Is there a police file/report to that effect? Anyone can say anything. Let those who allege first prove the veracity of their claims,” Colonel Magezi said.
Related: Gen Muhoozi Threatens to Sack Police Officers Who Don’t Beat NUP Supporters
Growing Calls for Justice
As international scrutiny over Uganda’s human rights record intensifies, NUP has vowed to push for the release of all political prisoners and hold the government accountable for alleged state-sponsored persecution.
Bashabe’s harrowing account has reignited calls for transparency and justice, underscoring the ongoing struggle for political freedom in Uganda.
