Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has confirmed that veteran politician and former Ethics and Integrity Minister Miria Matembe is in state custody, ending several days of uncertainty following reports that she had gone missing after a security operation at her home in Luzira.
The development has triggered renewed political debate and concern from rights observers over the circumstances surrounding her detention.
According to reports from family members and civil society sources, Matembe’s home in Luzira was allegedly raided between June 24 and 25, 2026 by armed security personnel.
During the operation, her residence was searched and electronic devices including phones and computers were reportedly confiscated.
However, her whereabouts were not immediately known after the raid, prompting her family to report her missing after they were unable to trace her in known detention facilities.
Muhoozi Breaks Silence On Social Media
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba later confirmed Matembe’s detention through posts shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on June 28, 2026.
In his posts, he alleged that Matembe was arrested over “impersonation,” while also making remarks that have drawn criticism from sections of the public and political observers.
The comments have since fueled debate online, with critics questioning the tone and appropriateness of communication from a senior military official on matters involving civilian arrests.
Matembe has been arrested for impersonation. Mzee only has one sister. Auntie Kajubiri.
— Muhoozi Kainerugaba (@mkainerugaba) June 28, 2026
Background To Matembe’s Political Position
Miria Matembe previously served as Minister of Ethics and Integrity in the early years of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government.
In recent years, she has become a prominent government critic, frequently speaking out on governance, accountability, and political transitions in Uganda.
Her past inside government has often given weight to her public criticism, particularly on issues involving state power and leadership conduct.
