Two top National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy presidents, Jolly Jacklyn Tukamushaba and Lina Zedriga, have been produced in court after weeks of secret detention, sparking widespread outrage over the treatment of opposition leaders in Uganda. Tukamushaba appeared before a court in Kabale, facing charges of “Incitement to Violence” three weeks after her abduction. Supporters and colleagues insist the charges are baseless, emphasizing that she has never encouraged attacks on NRM supporters.
Her court appearance coincided with the submission of a Habeas Corpus application by her legal team, highlighting the state’s continued refusal to account for her whereabouts. Despite this, Tukamushaba was remanded until February 24, 2026, without prior notice to her lawyers.
Similarly, Lina Zedriga was produced in Gulu court under the same charge of “Incitement to Violence” after three weeks of incommunicado detention. She was remanded until February 17, 2026, also without the presence of her legal team. Meanwhile, NUP comrade Sebuwufu JohnMary is currently in Nakawa Court.
Critics have denounced the detentions and charges as a blatant abuse of power, a violation of due process, and an attack on political freedoms. Many warn that the crisis will persist until Ugandans collectively demand accountability and respect for the rule of law.
These recent events highlight the growing challenges facing opposition leaders in Uganda and underscore the risks they face when challenging the current regime.
