Mar 18 • 09:38 UTC 🌍 Africa AllAfrica

Uganda: Minister Oryem Says Barbie Torture Footage 'Misleading'

Uganda's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs refutes claims of torture against Barbie Kyagulanyi, calling it a misrepresentation of events during a security operation.

In a recent statement, Uganda's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Henry Oryem Okello, denied allegations that security forces harmed Barbie Kyagulanyi during an operation at the home of her husband, former presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine. The Minister described the narratives circulating in the media as misleading and asserted that Barbie Kyagulanyi was not tortured as claimed by some reports. He emphasized the need to correct these misunderstandings and protect the integrity of the operation carried out by security forces at their residence. Oryem's comments reflect a broader context of political tension in Uganda, especially surrounding figures like Bobi Wine, who has been a vocal opponent of President Museveni's government. In his response, Oryem criticized Bobi Wine for allegedly overestimating his importance on the political stage, comparing him unfavorably to the sitting President Museveni. The statement indicates the ongoing struggle between government officials and opposition leaders, illustrating the sensitive nature of political discourse in the country. This incident has broader implications for Uganda's political environment and the treatment of opposition voices. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, a prominent figure in the Ugandan military, previously supported Oryem's claims by asserting that soldiers do not harm women, further trying to downplay the allegations. Such assertions by government officials could influence public perception and the international community’s view on Uganda’s human rights record, especially regarding how dissent is managed under the current regime.

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