Eddie Mutwe Remanded to Luzira After Being Denied Bail in Masaka Court
Mutwe, whose real name is Eddy Ssebuufu, appeared before the Masaka Magistrate’s Court amidst tight security. Clad in a dark hoodie, Mutwe displayed visible signs of what appeared to be torture—scars, bruises, and discoloration etched along his arms. His gesture, which has since gone viral, captured the defiant spirit of the opposition and the increasingly grim reality faced by its most active members.
Uganda Today Edition: Eddie Mutwe Remanded to Luzira After Being Denied Bail in Masaka Court
Masaka, Uganda | May 20, 2025 – In a dramatic turn of events, Eddie Mutwe, the longtime chief bodyguard to National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (popularly known as Bobi Wine), was today denied bail and instead committed to the High Court in a case that has stirred public concern and outcry over what many view as political persecution.
Mutwe, whose real name is Eddy Ssebuufu, appeared before the Masaka Magistrate’s Court amidst tight security. Clad in a dark hoodie, Mutwe displayed visible signs of what appeared to be torture—scars, bruises, and discoloration etched along his arms. His gesture, which has since gone viral, captured the defiant spirit of the opposition and the increasingly grim reality faced by its most active members.
Bail Denied, High Court Committal Surprises Legal Observers
Despite presenting substantial sureties and having no previous criminal convictions, Mutwe’s bail application was summarily denied. The presiding magistrate committed him to the High Court, citing “the gravity of charges” which remain suspiciously vague and broadly phrased under the pretext of assaulting journalists, stealing a sweater nd a phone.
Legal experts and human rights advocates have condemned the court’s decision, calling it “a miscarriage of justice” and “a clear extension of political repression through judicial means.”
“He has been in and out of prison for years without ever being convicted. The state continues to use remand as punishment. This is illegal and inhumane,” said a representative from the Uganda Human Rights Defenders Network.
Luzira Remand, a Familiar Holding Cell for Opposition Voices
Following the court proceedings, Mutwe was transferred to Murchison Bay, a section of Luzira Maximum Security Prison notorious for its harsh conditions. NUP party officials say they are launching an immediate legal challenge against the High Court committal and will petition for an expedited bail hearing.
“This is not just a personal attack on Eddie. It is a statement to all of us that no one is safe if they speak truth to power,” said Joel Ssenyonyi, the NUP spokesperson.
A Symbol of Defiance Amid Repression
The photo of Mutwe, hands raised with scars encircled and fingers forming a gesture of resistance, has been widely circulated across social media platforms. The image has been adopted as a symbol of resilience by supporters of the opposition and is drawing international attention.
Eddie Mutwe raises his scarred arms in a defiant salute while appearing in Masaka Court – May 20, 2025. (Photo: Courtesy)
Additional Images Suggested for Publication:
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An older file photo of Eddie Mutwe with Bobi Wine – to contextualize his role as the chief bodyguard and highlight his longstanding presence in NUP’s frontline.
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