NUP Accuses Security Forces of Continuous Abductions as LC3 Councilor Denis Senono Disappears in Broad Daylight

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has once again raised alarm over the abduction of its members, accusing security forces of orchestrating a campaign of terror against opposition supporters. The latest incident involves Denis Senono, an LC3 Councilor and well-known NUP activist, who was forcibly taken by armed soldiers in a drone (van) with the registration number UAK 387H. According to NUP Secretary General David Rubongoya, Senono’s whereabouts remain unknown, fueling fears about his safety and the growing pattern of enforced disappearances in Uganda.

“Yesterday at around 7:30 pm, our comrade and LC3 Councillor Denis Senono, commonly known as Den City, was abducted by heavily armed soldiers who were moving in a drone. His whereabouts are still unknown,” Rubongoya revealed during a press briefing. He described Senono as a passionate young activist who frequently raised the Ugandan flag at NUP activities and events.

Eyewitnesses recounted that the drone, which had been parked near the NUP headquarters for a significant amount of time, ambushed Senono as he walked a few meters from the party offices. Soldiers allegedly grabbed him and forcefully shoved him into the van, which then sped away. His family, friends, and party colleagues have been left in anguish, uncertain about his condition or location.

Rubongoya expressed deep concern for Senono’s well-being, stating, “By now, he must be enduring untold torture and brutality from the same people who should be protecting citizens.” His remarks reflect growing frustration within the NUP over the Ugandan government’s continued harassment of opposition members, a tactic they argue is meant to stifle dissent and instill fear in the population.

A Troubling Pattern of Abductions

Denis Senono’s disappearance is the latest in a long line of abductions that have targeted NUP supporters and officials. Since the 2021 general elections, hundreds of opposition members have been taken by security forces in similar operations, often in unmarked vehicles, known locally as “drones.” Many of the abductees are held incommunicado, denied access to legal representation, and subjected to torture and degrading treatment before being released or formally charged with dubious crimes.

Human rights organizations have documented widespread cases of illegal detentions and disappearances, noting that many victims are never seen again, while others resurface months later with physical and emotional scars from their ordeal. The abductions are part of a broader crackdown on political opposition in Uganda, where the ruling government has resorted to increasingly authoritarian tactics to maintain control.

The NUP has been at the forefront of efforts to expose these violations, frequently documenting cases of enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests. Party leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, has consistently called for international attention to the plight of Ugandans living under the constant threat of state violence. The party has repeatedly accused the government of using state security apparatuses to silence critics, especially those who speak out against President Yoweri Museveni’s regime.

Government Denial and Silence

Despite the rising number of reported abductions, Ugandan authorities continue to deny any systematic targeting of opposition members. Security forces often claim that those arrested are involved in criminal activities, but little to no evidence is ever presented. In most cases, victims are released without charges after weeks or months in custody, a tactic critics argue is designed to intimidate and break the will of political activists.

NUP’s Secretary General David Rubongoya criticized the government’s handling of Senono’s abduction, stating that security forces have become the biggest threat to Ugandans’ safety. “These abductions are not isolated incidents but part of a broader strategy to dismantle opposition efforts and terrorize citizens. This is a blatant abuse of power by those entrusted with the duty to serve and protect,” he said.

Calls for Justice and Accountability

As the situation continues to worsen, human rights activists and political analysts are calling for stronger action from the international community. The NUP has demanded that Uganda’s government immediately disclose the whereabouts of Denis Senono and all other abducted individuals. They are urging the United Nations and other global human rights bodies to investigate the abductions and pressure the Ugandan government to halt these illegal practices.

The Ugandan government, however, has so far shown little willingness to engage with such demands. With no accountability for security forces involved in these abductions, the sense of impunity has only grown, further emboldening those responsible for these human rights violations.

The disappearance of Denis Senono, like so many others, leaves a cloud of fear hanging over Uganda’s political landscape. His case serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to stand against the government. The fight for justice, transparency, and human rights in Uganda remains an uphill battle, as opposition leaders and supporters face ongoing threats to their safety and freedom.