Exiled Ugandan Blogger Fred Lumbuye Pleads for Diplomatic Intervention Amid Extradition Pressures
Self-exiled Ugandan blogger and political activist Fred Lumbuye Kajubi, popularly known as “Chemical Ali,” has issued an urgent plea to international diplomats and influential Ugandans to secure his safety as pressures mount for his extradition from Turkey.
In a video message broadcast on his social media platforms, Lumbuye revealed that he is currently residing in an undisclosed location in Turkey due to growing threats to his life and security. The activist stated that he has previously provided critical security alerts to numerous government officials, Buganda Kingdom representatives, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens, enabling them to evade arrests and targeted violence. However, he expressed disappointment that many of those he aided have remained silent while he faces persecution.
“My work should be appreciated while I am still alive, not waited until I am killed like late blogger Isma Olaxes before people start talking good about me,” Lumbuye said in his statement.
The plea comes as General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces and leader of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), intensifies efforts to compel Turkish authorities to deport the controversial critic back to Uganda. Gen. Muhoozi has publicly criticized Turkish officials, alleging that Lumbuye’s online broadcasts are actively disrupting security and state affairs.
Supporters associated with the Patriotic League of Uganda staged demonstrations outside the Turkish Embassy in Kampala, demanding Lumbuye’s immediate extradition to face charges in Uganda.
Lumbuye called upon individuals with diplomatic connections to intervene directly with the Turkish government to grant him political asylum and protection from state security operatives seeking his capture.
