Maggie Etilu declared herself free
Amuria District Woman MP Maggie Etilu has announced her release after nearly three weeks of what she described as “unlawful detention”, ending days of speculation and concern over her whereabouts.
In a statement posted on her X account at 6:28 pm on Thursday, Etilu thanked Ugandans and various groups that had campaigned and prayed for her release.
“I thank all Ugandans, the Church, human rights activists, MPs, and my electorates for standing with me and praying during my unlawful detention since 23rd May 2026. I am now free. May God abundantly bless you all,” Etilu posted.
Her announcement came barely a day after Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Vice-President Jessica Rose Alupo assured Parliament that the legislator would be released within the week.
The assurance followed pressure from the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, who demanded that government explain Etilu’s disappearance and account for other Ugandans reportedly missing under unclear circumstances.
The opposition has repeatedly raised concerns over what it describes as enforced disappearances and unlawful detentions, urging government to provide information on the whereabouts of individuals allegedly being held without due process.
While Etilu confirmed that she had regained her freedom, she did not disclose where she had been held, the circumstances surrounding her detention, or whether any charges had been brought against her.
Her disappearance attracted widespread concern among fellow legislators, civil society organisations, religious leaders, human rights activists and constituents in Amuria district, many of whom called for her immediate release or for authorities to reveal her whereabouts.
By Thursday evening, government had not issued an official statement explaining the circumstances surrounding Etilu’s detention and subsequent release.
Speculation surrounding her disappearance had linked it to ongoing investigations into alleged illicit wealth accumulation connected to former Speaker Anita Annet Among, although no official connection has been confirmed.
