KAMPALA, Uganda — Concerns over post-election arrests intensified this week after supporters of the opposition National Unity Platform said Nyonyozi Gloria, the party’s coordinator for Rwampala district in Western Uganda, was taken into custody by security operatives and is being held at an undisclosed location.
According to NUP officials and local activists, Nyonyozi was arrested days after the Jan. 15, 2026, general presidential elections. Her family and colleagues say they have not received formal communication from authorities regarding her whereabouts or the charges she may face.
Uganda Police had not issued an official statement about the arrest by press time, and attempts to obtain confirmation from security agencies were unsuccessful. In recent weeks, however, police spokespersons have maintained that arrests linked to political activity are conducted within the law and are aimed at preserving public order.
Nyonyozi is the sister of a former journalist and political activist whose name is being withheld for security reasons.
Human rights advocates say they are monitoring reports of detentions closely. “We are receiving multiple complaints from families who say their relatives were picked up after openly supporting opposition campaigns,” said one Kampala-based rights observer, who called for transparency and due process.
Government officials have consistently denied accusations of politically motivated arrests, arguing that individuals are detained only when suspected of breaking the law.
As of Monday evening, Nyonyozi’s relatives said they were still seeking legal access and confirmation of her location. Opposition leaders have called for her immediate release or formal presentation before court, while urging supporters to remain calm as tensions continue to simmer in the aftermath of the election.
