ENTEBBE, Uganda – The family and political party of Dr. Robert Kayingo Lujja are in deep distress, four days after he was reportedly arrested by security operatives upon his arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Dr. Lujja, who had returned from South Africa to attend a family funeral, has not been seen or heard from since his detention under unclear circumstances.
According to his mother, Namubiru Gorret, and sister, Nakimuli Claire, Dr. Lujja was apprehended at the airport shortly after landing. Nakimuli, who was at the airport to pick him up, stated that communication ceased abruptly upon his arrival as security personnel took him away without explanation. The family claims that repeated inquiries to airport security and police for information regarding his whereabouts and the reason for his detention have gone unanswered, leaving them in a state of profound anxiety.
Dr. Lujja is a prominent figure in Ugandan politics, having recently been nominated as the presidential candidate for the Federal Alliance party. While his nomination had yet to be officially introduced to the wider party leadership, his arrest has sent shockwaves through the political landscape. Family members revealed that he had traveled back to Uganda specifically to participate in the burial of his brother, Mike Sserunkuuma Kinobe, at their ancestral home in Buwaali, Nsangi. His elder brother, Bruno Sserunkuuma, was also present at the funeral gathering before Dr. Lujja’s arrest.
The Federal Alliance party, through its leader Sozzi Lawrence and other officials, has also voiced strong concerns. Party members, currently blocked from accessing their Mengo offices, have been engaging with the media, expressing their dismay over what they describe as a politically motivated arrest during a sensitive time for the party.
When contacted for comment, Entebbe International Airport spokesperson Viane Lujja stated he was not aware of the matter. The family has now issued a heartfelt appeal to all security agencies in the country, urging them to help locate Dr. Lujja, clarify any charges against him, and ensure that justice is served.
Dr Lujja’s disappearance echoes concerns often raised about arbitrary arrests and detentions in Uganda, particularly involving opposition figures. Under Ugandan law, a person arrested without a warrant should be brought before a magistrate’s court within 48 hours. Dr. Lujja’s continued disappearance well beyond this period raises serious questions about adherence to legal procedures.
