Lutaaya, a mother of two, has long been regarded by many as a political prisoner, with her release being demanded on numerous occasions, with claims that she was being persecuted due to her political beliefs. However, the state has repeatedly maintained that while several NUP supporters were arrested during and after the 2021 elections, those without criminal involvement were released, and only those with cases to answer have remained in custody since.
The demand for Lutaaya’s release escalated in December 2023, when a journalist raised the issue before President Yoweri Museveni. Museveni tasked an army official to investigate whether she was detained for political reasons or due to her alleged involvement in criminal activities.
Lutaaya is one of 48 individuals arrested in Kalangala during the 2020 campaigns for NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine. They were initially charged with illegal possession of ammunition. Lutaaya was granted bail by the former Court Martial chairperson, Lt. Gen. Andrew Gutti, only to be rearrested a few months later with 31 others on fresh charges of treachery and possession of explosive devices.
The group that pleaded guilty alongside Lutaaya includes Rashid Ssegujja, David Mafabi, Robert Christopher Rugumayo, Muhydin Kakooza, Abdul Matovu, Mesearch Kiwanuka, Simon Kijambu, Ibrahim Wandera, Stanley Lwanga, Steven Musaakaru, Ronald Kijjambu, Asubat Nagwere, Livingstone Katushabe, Matovu Sharif, and Swaibu Katabi.
These individuals were charged with possessing 13 explosive devices, a monopoly of the defense forces, which they were found with between November 2020 and May 2021 in various parts of Uganda, including Jinja, Mbale, Kireka, and Kampala Central.
The accused had previously denied the charges but chose to change their plea during a hearing before Brig Gen Freeman Robert Mugabe. According to their lawyer, Captain Simon Busagwa, the decision was made in hopes of gaining freedom after being imprisoned for over three years. Their case has been adjourned until October 21, 2024, when the prosecution will present the facts of the case before the court proceeds with the conviction.
The charges stem from allegations that the accused plotted petrol bomb attacks on government vehicles and buildings ahead of President Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony in May 2021. Authorities claim the group opposed Museveni’s re-election and supported NUP’s Kyagulanyi, believing that he had won the election.
The suspects were also allegedly involved in attacks on Kasubi Royal Tombs, Uganda Registration Services Bureau, and Katwe Police Station.
Despite several attempts to secure bail, all applications have been denied. Sources suggest that negotiations are underway, with the minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Dr Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, reportedly discussing with President Museveni the possibility of releasing NUP prisoners.
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