Former Ethics Minister Miria Matembe has publicly responded to President Yoweri Museveni following remarks in his latest national address in which he appeared to mock her physical condition during a recent court appearance.
Speaking in a strongly worded statement, Matembe accused the President of trivialising what she described as a traumatic ordeal, after she was recently arrested, reportedly went missing for several days, and was later produced in court before being released on bail.
In his Saturday address, Museveni questioned Matembe’s conduct in court, suggesting inconsistency in her physical state by claiming she entered while limping but walked out without difficulty. The remarks have since sparked debate, with critics describing them as dismissive of alleged mistreatment during detention.
Responding to the President, Matembe framed her remarks in religious terms, drawing parallels with the biblical story of Cain and Abel. She claimed that the Head of State was distancing himself from responsibility, likening his stance to Cain’s denial after killing his brother.
“After his son had captured me, disrespected me, and mistreated me… I reflected and called upon God,” Matembe said. “I imagined my brother Museveni revealing to the state that he is not the keeper of his sister.”
Matembe further stated that she was invoking what she described as the “curse” declared upon Cain, urging the President to reflect on his actions and respond accordingly. Despite her criticism, she struck a conciliatory tone, saying she had forgiven both Museveni and his son.
“Otherwise, I am praying for him. I forgive him and his son,” she added.
Her remarks introduce a deeply personal and symbolic dimension to an already tense political exchange, coming at a time of increased scrutiny over the treatment of opposition figures and critics of government.
The government has not issued an official response to Matembe’s latest statement. However, the exchange is likely to intensify ongoing discussions around civil liberties, accountability, and the conduct of security agencies.