By Ben Musanje
The President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Isaac Ssemakadde, has called for the immediate production or release of photojournalist and activist Andrew Natumanya, popularly known as Ninye Tabz, following reports of his alleged abduction and detention in Kampala.
In a statement issued on Friday, Ssemakadde described reports surrounding Natumanya’s disappearance as disturbing and called on authorities to explain his whereabouts and the circumstances under which he was taken.
“Where is he? Under what legal authority was he taken? What charges, if any, does he face?” Ssemakadde asked in the statement, urging authorities to either produce Natumanya before a competent court or release him without delay.
Natumanya, widely known by his social media identity @NinyeTabz, has gained prominence for documenting political events and activities, particularly those associated with the National Unity Platform (NUP). His reported disappearance has sparked concern among activists, journalists and opposition supporters.
Ssemakadde said the Uganda Law Society would extend legal support and advocacy to ensure that Natumanya’s rights are protected.
“The same government apparatus that targeted me has today targeted Tabz. Tomorrow it could be you,” he said, adding that the legal body remains committed to defending the rights of all citizens regardless of political affiliation or personal differences.
In his statement, Ssemakadde disclosed that he had previously been the target of online attacks from Natumanya during what he described as periods of persecution and exile. He said Natumanya frequently mocked his misfortunes and personal circumstances and, together with others, probed his private life and associations. Ssemakadde characterized the conduct not as journalism or criticism in the conventional sense, but as trolling and personal attacks that he said caused real hurt.
Despite those differences, Ssemakadde said his position as head of the Uganda Law Society required him to rise above personal grievances and advocate for the protection of constitutional rights.
He also referenced the recent disappearance of Hon. Justine Nameere (State Minister for Local Government), saying Natumanya had similarly mocked and targeted the National Resistance Movement (NRM) politician during and after her reported disappearance.
Addressing Natumanya’s supporters and colleagues, Ssemakadde said the protection of fundamental rights should not be limited to political allies.
“The protection of fundamental rights and the rule of law is not a favour extended only to allies. It is a solemn obligation owed to every citizen, including those who once stood against us,” he stated.
The Uganda Law Society President further expressed concern about what he described as growing divisions within Uganda’s online and political communities, arguing that such divisions weaken collective efforts to defend civil liberties and the rule of law.
He also conveyed a message to Natumanya’s family, stating that the Uganda Law Society stands against enforced disappearances and unlawful detention.
“We unequivocally condemn this act and demand his immediate production and fair treatment,” Ssemakadde said.
As of Thursday evening, authorities had not publicly commented on the allegations regarding Natumanya’s reported abduction or disclosed his whereabouts. Independent verification of the circumstances surrounding his disappearance had not yet been established.
The Uganda Law Society’s intervention adds to growing calls from civil society actors seeking clarification on the photojournalist’s status and demanding adherence to legal procedures in handling arrests and detentions. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
