The National Unity Platform (NUP) political prisoners in Uganda have been subjected to extreme coercion, forcing them to plead guilty to charges of terrorism and possession of ammunition, according to the NUP Principal Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu Alias Bobi Wine .
This disturbing trend has sparked widespread outrage, with Bobi Wine, condemning the government’s strong-arm tactics .Sixteen NUP supporters, including Olivia Lutaaya, Paul Muwanguzi, Siraj Obalai and Joseph Muganza, have pleaded guilty to possession of ammunition, with prosecution alleging they had 13 explosive devices between November 2020 and May 2021.
However, Kyagulanyi asserts that these prisoners were coerced into pleading guilty in exchange for their freedom.
“Shame on the regime for exploiting vulnerable citizens,” Wine thundered at a press briefing on Monday, October 21, 2024.
“We won’t condemn our comrades for ‘weakening’ under duress. They’re victims of state-sponsored coercion, forced to betray their convictions for freedom.”
Wine equated pleading guilty to terrorism to surrendering to a “curse.”
“Accepting such charges is self-incrimination, a permanent stain on one’s record,” he warned.
Forced Confessions
Kyagulanyi has warned that accepting such charges can have severe consequences, effectively accepting a “curse” that can lead to permanent damage to their reputation and future. Despite this, he praised imprisoned NUP supporters resisting coercion, saying their courage in the face of oppression is honor-worthy.
Government Accused of Orchestrating Guilty Pleas
The NUP accuses State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, of brokering these guilty pleas. Barugahara claims NUP leaders misled youth, but Kyagulanyi counters that the minister’s attempts to whitewash regime atrocities won’t succeed.
Terrorism Charges: A Tool of Repression?
Experts warn that pleading guilty to terrorism can carry life imprisonment or even the death penalty. The 32 NUP supporters face charges under Section 31 of the Firearms Act, carrying up to 10 years imprisonment.
Kyagulanyi vows unwavering support for imprisoned NUP supporters, promising to fight for justice and expose regime brutality. The escalating row underscores Uganda’s deepening political divide.
