NEWS
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has confirmed the arrest of Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira, a Catholic priest of Masaka Diocese, following allegations of involvement in “violent subversive activities against the state.”
In a press statement issued by Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, the UPDF said Fr. Ssekabira is in lawful custody and will be charged in court after investigations. “He is currently assisting with further investigations into the matter,” the statement read.
The announcement comes just a day after Bishop Serverus Jjumba of Masaka Diocese publicly decried what he described as the “kidnap” of Fr. Ssekabira by men in army uniform on December 3, 2025, at Katwe in Masaka City. The priest, who also serves as Director of Uplift Primary School, was reportedly taken away by a drone vehicle at 1:00 p.m. and has not been seen since.
The Bishop described the incident as “a grievous wound inflicted on Masaka Diocese, the entire Catholic Church, and Fr. Ssekabira’s family.” He called on the faithful to join in a Rosary Triduum, praying the Sorrowful Mysteries for the safe return of the priest and for peace in Uganda.
The Diocese’s statement drew parallels with the 1976 disappearance of Msgr. Clement Mukasa, who was kidnapped from Kitovu Cathedral and has never been seen again.
The contrasting narratives, the UPDF’s confirmation of arrest versus the Diocese’s insistence on abduction, have sparked widespread concern among Catholics and the broader public. While the Church continues to demand Fr. Ssekabira’s safe release, security authorities maintain that due legal process will follow.
