The Eddie Mutwe detention case has ignited a standoff between the Uganda Human Rights Commission and the Chief of Defence Forces. UHRC chairperson Mariam Wangadya ordered the release of Edward Ssebuufu, also known as Eddie Mutwe, citing her constitutional powers. She stated that Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s angry response held no significance because the authorities had already released Mutwe.
On May 2, 2025, Ms Wangadya wrote to Gen Muhoozi and demanded the immediate release of Mutwe, who had remained in custody since April 26. She emphasized that holding him without cause violated the Constitution and warned that disobeying the directive would amount to contempt under Article 53(1)(d). Her action followed public outrage after Gen Muhoozi posted a photo of Eddie Mutwe appearing disoriented, half-naked, and with his facial hair shaved off.
Gen Muhoozi escalated the situation by publishing multiple inflammatory posts on X, formerly Twitter. He claimed Mutwe was learning Runyankore in his basement and referred to him as a “punching bag.” His statements triggered widespread backlash, with critics accusing the military of mocking human rights violations.
Eight days after his disappearance, plainclothes men dropped Eddie Mutwe at Masaka Court in a white Toyota Mark X. He struggled to walk and appeared physically weak. Court authorities charged him with six counts, including robbery and malicious damage to property, and later sent him to Masaka Main Prison. Mutwe informed his lawyers that officers beat him, stripped him, and subjected him to electric shocks during his detention.
Gen Muhoozi later shared a copy of Ms Wangadya’s letter online, calling it “stupid,” and demanded an apology. He warned officials never to send such letters again. Despite President Museveni’s earlier instructions to avoid online outbursts, Gen Muhoozi continues to disregard this advice.
Over the years, Gen Muhoozi has used social media to attack institutions and leaders. Earlier in 2025, he threatened the Supreme Court after it ruled that military courts could not try civilians. He demanded an apology from the judges and hinted at retaliation. In the past, he has directed hostile remarks toward Kenya, Ethiopia, Sudan, the DRC, and Guinea. After threatening to invade Nairobi in 2022, President Museveni publicly apologized and removed him from his military role. However, he promoted Muhoozi to the rank of General soon after.
In contrast, Ms Wangadya has focused on upholding human rights. On May 15, 2025, EU Ambassador Jan Sadek awarded her a certificate of appreciation for her commitment to justice. The Uganda Human Rights Commission, established under the 1995 Constitution, investigates violations and can order the release of unlawfully detained people. Wangadya used this legal power in the Eddie Mutwe detention case.
This incident has reignited debate about the balance between military authority and civilian oversight. It also raises concerns over the impact of social media behavior by high-ranking officials. While Gen Muhoozi demands apologies and fuels online confrontations, UHRC remains committed to defending constitutional rights for all Ugandans.
