A revelation by Parliament’s Human Rights Committee has brought to light the case of Alfred Byamukama, a Ugandan man who has spent 28 years in Luzira Prison without ever standing trial.
The committee’s findings indicate that more than half of Luzira’s prison population consists of inmates on remand. Despite legal provisions stating that pre-trial detention should be the exception rather than the norm, the practice remains widespread across the country.
Byamukama’s case came to light when members of the Human Rights Committee visited Luzira Maximum Prison over the weekend, initially to check on opposition leader Dr. Kiiza Besigye, who has been in detention since November 2024. However, Byamukama’s plight quickly became the focal point of discussion.
During a parliamentary session on Tuesday, the committee’s report—presented by Fox Odoi—sparked intense debate. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa was visibly disturbed upon learning that a Ugandan citizen had been imprisoned for nearly three decades without trial.
While some MPs attempted to steer the conversation toward Dr. Besigye’s detention, Tayebwa insisted on addressing Byamukama’s case. “We are talking about someone who has been in prison for 28 years. This is different,” he said.
Buhweju County MP Francis Mwijukye further emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that Byamukama has not only been on remand for 28 years but has also never been presented in court.
Byamukama was arrested in 1997 in Mbarara on allegations of murder, yet his case has remained stagnant in the justice system for nearly three decades.
In response, Parliament has directed Deputy Attorney General Kafuzi Karugaba Jackson to work with prison authorities and provide a comprehensive report on prisoners who have been detained for excessive periods without trial. The report is expected next week.
