Finally after a heated argument with Balaam Barugahara, Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition, has presented a full list of all detained and missing National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters to Parliament.
The submission of the list comes in response to a request from Hon. Balam Barugahara, the Minister of State for Youth Affairs, who sought the provision of names to address the pressing issue of the continued detention of NUP members.
During a recent parliamentary session, the Member of Parliament for Buyaga West, Barnabas Tinkasimire, raised questions regarding the purpose behind Minister Balam Ateenyi’s request for these lists. Tinkasimire sought clarification on whether the intention was to initiate an amnesty process for the detained individuals through the Amnesty Commission.
"I am finding what we are discussing strange and I will need guidance," remarked Tinkasimire. "When the lists are laid before Parliament as requested by Balaam, are we handling some amnesty process? Because as far as I know, when you are suspected to commit a crime, you are produced before courts of law and a due process is followed."
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa addressed Tinkasimire’s concerns, emphasizing the gravity of the situation. Tayebwa highlighted that Minister Balam Ateenyi’s request was made in good faith to assist the detained individuals, stressing the urgency of collective efforts to ensure their well-being.
"In Parliament when colleagues come here to submit, they aren’t pretending. They mean serious business," stated Tayebwa. "So, I took it that he was asking in good faith and to me, considering how we have grappled with this issue, anyone who can put their block, anyone who can use their own tactics, influence, we give them a chance so that these young people who are alleged to be in prison can be helped."
In a display of solidarity, NUP President Bobi Wine also shared the list of missing persons on his Twitter account, reaffirming the party’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Through social media, Bobi Wine underscored the government’s responsibility for the abduction and detention of NUP supporters, urging for their immediate release.
"The same criminal regime which abducted, tortured and still holds onto our people now claims to not know them or where they are," wrote Bobi Wine.
This afternoon in Parliament, I've once again laid on table the list of missing persons including John Bosco Kibalama (whom Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja said was arrested and she knows where he is), plus those in jail like Olivia Lutaaya for over 3 years without trial.
— Joel Ssenyonyi (@JoelSsenyonyi) April 4, 2024
We've… pic.twitter.com/5m8Sb4gA0T
