By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Nobert Mao, has strongly warned security officers against violating the Constitution by torturing suspects and conducting illegal detentions.
His remarks follow the court appearance of Edward Ssebuufu aka Eddie Mutwe, the National Unity Platform’s Chief of Security, who was remanded on Monday by the Masaka High Court. Ssebuufu appeared frail, showing alleged signs of torture after he was reportedly abducted by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba in Mukono district on April 26, and illegally kept under his private basement.
Mao criticized bringing illegally detained, tortured and brutalized suspects to court, stating that the practice doesn’t only abuse judicial processes but also violates the suspect’s constitutional rights.
“The law and past and the High Court rulings suggest that if somebody goes to court when he is visibly tortured or sick,” said Mao. “The Uganda Prisons Act also prohibits the admission of tortured or ill suspects into custody.”
Mao blasted public calls to act against Gen. Muhoozi, likening his powers to a linesman in a football match.
“Sometimes you may not have the power to do much, but at least you can make your voice high like a linesman. When the ball has crossed the line, you raise the flag, but you cannot run into the field to manhandle players,” he said, adding, “Some people expect me to manhandle the players, but I can only advise the court and security forces.”
Mao made the comments while addressing Democratic Party (DP) members after submitting his nomination forms to run for a fourth term as party president.
On Tuesday, over 100 DP members submitted nomination forms at the party’s national mobilization headquarters in Rubaga, Kampala, ahead of internal elections.
Mao also took a swipe at critics who accused him of “selling” the party to the ruling NRM, yet still sought nominations under the DP banner.
“Those who claimed I sold the party are now returning nomination forms. Why would you seek leadership in a party you claim was sold?” he questioned.
He stated that as President Museveni approaches the twilight of his leadership, he is the only experienced leader capable of guiding the country into the future.
“I have the experience to lead DP and Uganda. I’m educated, exposed, and have been an advocate since 1994. I’ve studied at some of the world’s best universities, including those attended by Bill Clinton and George Bush.”
At least four candidates have submitted their nomination forms to contest for the DP presidency and the party’s presidential flag bearer position ahead of the 2026 general elections.
DP will elect its National Executive Committee during a Delegates Conference on May 30 in Ruti, Mbarara City.
