Video of Missing Uganda Opposition Aide Surfaces

Sam Mugumya, 47, a former aide to Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye, appeared in a video after being missing for months. He was reportedly abducted in Kenya two years ago and was a candidate for Besigye’s party.

In August 2025, local media reported that Mugumya had been taken by individuals linked to the security forces. The video, which showed him emaciated and seated next to a walker, circulated on social media in late July.

His mother, Edinansi Katungwesi, confirmed his identity and expressed anger towards the government, stating, “It is the government that took my son.” Activist Agather Atuhaire described Mugumya's condition as “appalling and shocking,” attributing his disappearance to the military. The Uganda Law Society has filed a petition for his release, with vice-president Anthony Asiimwe demanding that if Mugumya is suspected of an offense, he should be presented in court.

Concerns about a crackdown on opposition figures have been raised following President Yoweri Museveni's re-election in January.