KAMPALA – Retired Maj. Gen. Mugisha Muntu, presidential candidate for the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), has issued a stark warning to Uganda’s ruling authorities, urging them to respect political opponents and uphold justice.
Speaking shortly after his nomination for the 2026 elections, Muntu emphasized that power is fleeting and should never be wielded to punish dissent.
“Please, today you are in power, tomorrow you won’t. Deal with those who are not with you in a manner in which you would want them to deal with you when you are out there and they are in there,” he said.
Criticism of Arbitrary Arrests
Muntu condemned the government’s persecution of opposition leaders through prolonged detentions, highlighting the case of former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) president Dr. Kizza Besigye.
“Doctor Colonel Kiiza Besigye has been incarcerated beyond the mandatory bail period. 180 days passed. If a prominent political leader, a war veteran, an officer of the NRA/UPDF – if that is done to him, what about you?”
He also pointed to the plight of youth activists and NUP members, including Sam Mugumya, who are either detained or missing, warning that the selective use of the justice system undermines Uganda’s democracy.
Institutions Over Individuals
A former army commander and veteran of the 1980s guerrilla war that brought President Yoweri Museveni to power, Muntu stressed that Uganda’s long-term stability depends on strong institutions, not individuals.
“We must build systems where everybody is below the law, including the president of the country,” he said.
“The government should act. If they have got evidence, they should proceed with the case. Dr. Kizza Besigye should be in his home enjoying his freedom. It’s not only Dr. Kizza Besigye. There are many young people of NUP who are in prison. If you have the cases, proceed. Take them to court and argue your case, not to incarcerate them in the prisons without trial.”
Muntu warned that manipulating the law for political ends sets a dangerous precedent.
“Manipulate the law, and you are laying a foundation for disaster. That is one of the most dangerous things that a country can have,” he added.
Growing Calls for Justice
Muntu’s comments arrive amid heightened political tension as Uganda prepares for the 2026 elections, adding weight to domestic and international calls for due process and fair treatment of opposition figures.
His message resonates with Ugandans who increasingly view justice as selective, with opposition members disproportionately targeted, highlighting a crucial challenge for the nation’s democracy.
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