We Don’t Have Him: Police deny arresting, detaining or abducting NUP’s Muwanga Kivumbi in High Court filing

The Uganda Police Force has denied arresting or detaining National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy President for Buganda, Muwanga Kivumbi Muhammad, insisting it has no record of his alleged abduction or whereabouts.

The denial is contained in an affidavit filed before the High Court Civil Division by Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Godwin Tumugumye in response to an application for a writ of habeas corpus ad subjiciendum seeking Kivumbi’s production before court.

In the affidavit sworn on July 20, 2026, ACP Tumugumye states that Kivumbi was not arrested by officers under the command or supervision of the Inspector General of Police and that the Uganda Police Force has no record of detaining him.

“I know that the Applicant was not arrested by officers under the command or supervision of the Inspector General of Police, nor is there any record indicating any operation involving the arrest or detention of the Applicant by the Uganda Police Force,” the affidavit reads.

The police acknowledge that Kivumbi’s vehicle was stopped at a police checkpoint but deny that he was arrested, abducted or detained by police officers.

“Whereas it is true that the Applicant’s motor vehicle was stopped at a Police checkpoint, he was not arrested, abducted or detained by the Uganda Police Force,” ACP Tumugumye states, adding that no evidence has been presented linking police officers to the alleged disappearance.

According to the affidavit, inquiries were conducted across relevant police units and stations, but no records were found showing that Kivumbi is or has ever been in police custody.

The police further argue that statements circulating on social media alleging Kivumbi is in state custody do not constitute evidence and are irrelevant to determining the application before court.

ACP Tumugumye also contends that the applicant has failed to provide documentary, testimonial or other evidence proving that the Inspector General of Police is holding Kivumbi, arguing that such proof is necessary for a writ of habeas corpus to be issued.

The Attorney General’s legal team advised that a writ of habeas corpus is only available where there is credible evidence that the respondent is unlawfully detaining a person. On that basis, the police have asked the High Court to dismiss the application against the Inspector General of Police with costs.

The application for habeas corpus was filed against the Chief of Defence Forces, the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General following Kivumbi’s disappearance after he was reportedly intercepted while travelling in Wakiso District on July 10.

Kivumbi, who is also the former Member of Parliament for Butambala County, has not been seen publicly since the incident. His disappearance has sparked concern from opposition leaders, human rights activists and his family, who continue to demand that security agencies account for his whereabouts.

The High Court is expected to determine the application after considering responses from all the respondents.