The State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, has rejected claims made by former National Unity Platform (NUP) detainee Olivia Lutaaya, one of the individuals recently pardoned by President Yoweri Museveni.
In his response, Balaam stated that Lutaaya is reportedly struggling with mental health issues and requires urgent medical care.
His comments came after Lutaaya accused authorities of coercing her and other detainees into admitting charges in exchange for their release. Balaam also presented a letter allegedly written by Lutaaya in which she requests a presidential pardon.
According to Balaam, the letter reveals that on October 15, 2024, Lutaaya, along with 18 other NUP detainees, sought assistance from the Commissioner General of Prisons, Dr. Johnson Omuhunde Rwashote Byabashaija, to appeal to President Museveni for clemency.
In the letter, Lutaaya reportedly stated:
“I am A10 in the above-named case. Honourable Minister, I thank you for your direct intervention in our court matters regardless of our tribes, religions, and political affiliations. I have been convicted by this court (GCM) for the charges I committed, and I take full responsibility. It was my decision to contribute to actions that aimed to destabilize a democratically elected government, but I deeply apologize for my unlawful conduct. Honourable Minister, I now appeal to you to send my regards to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, requesting his mercy and forgiveness on our behalf.”
Despite the contents of the letter, Lutaaya later asserted that she had not signed any such agreement voluntarily, claiming she was coerced.
Balaam strongly denied her allegations, labeling them as unfounded and emphasizing the need for Lutaaya to undergo immediate medical evaluation.
He also called on NUP leaders and supporters to adopt a more constructive approach to politics and engage in governance training.
Furthermore, Balaam urged the 19 pardoned NUP supporters to take part in government initiatives aimed at improving their livelihoods and compensating for the time they spent in detention.
In response, NUP lawyer George Musisi dismissed the letter as irrelevant, suggesting it was part of a larger political strategy aimed at undermining the party.
Meanwhile, the nine remaining NUP detainees are reportedly seeking bail in an attempt to secure their release.
