On October 14, after four years of unwavering defiance, Olivia Lutaaya and 15 other political prisoners associated with Uganda's National Unity Platform (NUP) changed their pleas in a dramatic turn of events. Initially refusing to plead guilty to charges of unlawful possession of explosives and treachery, their decision followed intense pressure, including alleged coercion from Balam Barugahara, the Minister of Youth and Children Affairs, who visited Kitalya Maximum Security Prison shortly before their change of plea.
George Musisi, the lawyer representing the detainees, highlighted the year-long process of persuasion and coercion that led to this moment. “No lawyer can tell you to admit to a crime you say you didn’t commit,” he noted, reflecting on the challenging legal journey since their arrests during the 2020 election campaigns.
The sixteen were arrested in November 2020 while campaigning for NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine). While many have succumbed to the state’s pressure, nine others remain steadfast, refusing to plead guilty.
A Harrowing Experience
Lutaaya, a mother of two, has become the face of these political prisoners, embodying their struggles over three years of court appearances. Despite her spirit, the relentless nature of the military court system, which offers no acquittals, ultimately led to her plea. The treatment of these prisoners echoes broader patterns seen in authoritarian regimes, where harsh conditions are employed to break dissent.
Political analysts suggest that the state has systematically used tactics like coercion, detention, and bribery to undermine NUP, which poses a significant threat to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Tragically, several NUP supporters have been killed, while others remain missing, with families still searching for loved ones.
The Bargain for Freedom
On October 21, the group will receive their sentences, with treachery potentially carrying the death penalty. However, Barugahara has publicly expressed hope that their guilty pleas will lead to leniency and a potential pardon from President Yoweri Museveni.
Barugahara’s role appears to align with his recent efforts to reshape perceptions within the NUP, including advocating for NUP members who are willing to cooperate with the government. His previous engagement with other NUP figures suggests a strategy to divide the party and weaken its resolve.
The sixteen who pleaded guilty may soon find freedom, but they are only a fraction of those still incarcerated or missing. The plight of political prisoners has become a contentious issue within NUP, with allegations of betrayal among party members complicating the narrative.
The Resilient Spirit of NUP
Despite the ongoing challenges, Bobi Wine remains committed to rallying his supporters. He emphasizes their resilience, stating, “This train started long ago and will not stop.” Recent rallies have demonstrated continued public support, even in the face of police intimidation.
As NUP prepares for the upcoming 2026 elections, the struggles of its imprisoned members underscore the broader fight against an oppressive regime. The political landscape remains fraught, but the determination of NUP supporters illustrates a steadfast commitment to their cause, despite the heavy price they pay for their beliefs.
