Kampala, Uganda — Ugandan politician Elias Nalukoola has raised concerns over what he views as an overreliance on religious leaders to press for the release of individuals regarded by their supporters as political detainees.
Nalukoola, a lawyer and politician, served as the Member of Parliament for Kawempe North Constituency in Kampala from 13 March to 26 May 2025, after Justice Namanya Bernard nullified the election, declaring the position vacant.
Nalukoola argued that responsibility for such decisions rests squarely with the executive arm of government, not the clergy. He questioned the rationale of seeking intervention from religious figures when constitutional authority is vested in the presidency.
“If the president is available, why should we turn elsewhere?” he asked, stressing that matters related to arrests and releases should be addressed through established state institutions.
Accountability and Institutional Roles
Uganda has historically seen religious leaders play mediation roles during periods of political tension. However, Nalukoola’s remarks signal growing calls from some political actors for direct accountability from the executive branch rather than indirect engagement through non-state actors.
President Yoweri Museveni has consistently maintained that security and law enforcement agencies operate within the bounds of the law when carrying out arrests and prosecutions.
The comments add to ongoing national conversations about governance, separation of powers, and the appropriate channels for resolving politically sensitive disputes.
