A disturbing video has surfaced showing Sam Mugumya, a former aide to prominent opposition figure Kizza Besigye, appearing frail and thin after vanishing a year ago. Family members and human rights activists suspect state authorities are responsible for his long-term disappearance.
Mugumya, 47, was a notable political figure previously abducted in Kenya and later pursued a candidacy for Besigye’s party. Local reports indicated he was seized by individuals associated with security forces in August 2025. He remained unseen until late July, when the brief clip appeared on social media showing him sitting beside a mobility aid.
His mother, Edinansi Katungwesi, identified him in the footage and expressed deep frustration, blaming the government for his abduction and current condition. While the military has not issued an official statement, the defense ministry previously denied detaining him. Activist Agather Atuhaire labeled the situation shocking, asserting that the military is likely behind his secret detention. Meanwhile, the Uganda Law Society has petitioned for his release, insisting that if he has committed a crime, he must be brought to trial rather than subjected to lawless treatment. This event occurs amid a tense political climate following the re-election of President Yoweri Museveni.
