Uganda’s military has confirmed that it is holding Father Deusdedit Ssekabira, a Catholic priest who disappeared nearly two weeks ago, saying he is suspected of involvement in what it described as “violent subversive activities.”
In a statement, the army said Father Ssekabira will be formally charged and produced in court. The Catholic Diocese of Masaka had earlier reported that the priest was “kidnapped by men wearing Uganda Army uniforms,” though the church has not responded to the military’s allegations.
The Masaka Diocese first raised the alarm over Father Ssekabira’s disappearance on Saturday. Bishop Serverus Jjumba described the incident, which occurred on 3 December, as a “grievous wound” to the local church, the wider Catholic community and the priest’s family.
He said the diocese, working with its legal team, is making efforts to secure Father Ssekabira’s safe return.
Uganda’s national police also said they were investigating reports circulating on social media about the priest’s abduction. In a post on X, police said they were “verifying the claims” and would issue updates once more details were established.
The detention has heightened concerns over the conduct of Uganda’s security forces at a time of increased political sensitivity, as the country prepares for elections next month.
Opposition leader Bobi Wine, who is set to challenge President Yoweri Museveni, criticised the military for detaining civilians. He alleged that several of his supporters have also been abducted, describing the incidents as indicative of the government’s response to dissent.
The case follows a series of recent disappearances that have drawn public attention. In October, two Kenyan human rights activists went missing for five weeks after reportedly being abducted at a campaign event linked to Bobi Wine. They were later released, with President Museveni acknowledging their arrest and describing them as “experts in riots” who were held temporarily.
The detention of Father Ssekabira has added to growing concerns among civil society groups and observers over the treatment of opposition figures, activists and religious leaders in Uganda. As the election draws closer, analysts warn that tensions between the government, security agencies and civil society may continue to escalate.
