Former presidential aspirant Yvonne Mpambara has condemned the reported arrests of activist Musiri David and political analyst Egesa Ronald, questioning the government’s commitment to national dialogue amid growing concerns over the safety of citizens.
Mpambara, who contested in Uganda’s recently concluded general elections, expressed her concerns in a statement posted on her X account, where she criticised what she described as a contradiction between government calls for national dialogue and alleged violations of citizens’ rights.
“How can the State call for national dialogue when it continues to abduct, torture and disappear citizens? Why should peaceful citizens negotiate with a State that has created insecurity countrywide?” Mpambara wrote.
She further expressed frustration with the country’s leadership, calling for the immediate release of the individuals she described as her colleagues.
“This country’s leaders are so exhausting. Free our colleagues,” she added.
Her remarks come amid heightened public debate over reports of arrests and alleged abductions involving individuals perceived to be critical of the government.
Mpambara’s statement also raises questions about the environment in which the proposed national dialogue can take place, particularly when sections of the opposition and civil society continue to express concerns about alleged intimidation, arrests and restrictions on political freedoms.
Her criticism highlights the growing demand among some political actors and activists for the government to address concerns surrounding civil liberties, personal security and the treatment of citizens before pursuing broader political consultations.
The circumstances surrounding the reported arrests of Musiri David and Egesa Ronald, including their current whereabouts and the specific allegations against them, remain important issues requiring clarification from the relevant authorities.
As calls for their release grow, attention is increasingly turning to the government’s response and whether meaningful national dialogue can be achieved without addressing concerns over the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.
