Hon.Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu alias Bobi Wine, president of the National Unity Platform (NUP), expressed his disappointment on social media regarding Minister for the Youth and Children Affairs, Hon.Balaam Barugahara’s actions towards political prisoners. Kyagulanyi revealed that 19 of the original 32 prisoners, who were part of the OliviaLutaaya case file, have been coerced into pleading guilty to crimes they did not commit after almost four years in detention without trial.
Kyagulanyi claimed that Balaam visited these prisoners on Saturday, despite it being a day when visitors were not allowed, and pressured them to confess and seek forgiveness from President Museveni. He stated that if they refused, they might never be released from prison.
He pointed out that while NUP members have been routinely denied visits with these prisoners, regime officials have had easy access to them. During these visits, they held long conversations, often recorded, and pressured the prisoners.
Kyagulanyi emphasized the harsh conditions these individuals faced, being held without trial and without any evidence against them. He noted that the prisoners were forced to abandon their legal representation and accept lawyers affiliated with the military.
Despite the frustration and desperation of those who pleaded guilty, Kyagulanyi commended the nine other prisoners who continue to demand justice and a fair trial. He called for understanding rather than judgment regarding the actions of the prisoners, highlighting the severe pressures they have faced.
Do you have a story in your community or an opinion to share with us: Email us at editorial@watchdoguganda.com
