Kampala Lord Mayor Balimwezo Ronald has expressed concern over a circulating video showing detained Ugandan activist Sam Mugumya being assisted to walk, appealing for compassion and accountability over his condition.
Balimwezo said he had watched the video several times and was deeply affected by Mugumya’s apparent difficulty walking. He contrasted the footage with Mugumya’s previous ability to walk normally, describing his current condition as painful to witness.
“I have watched the circulating video of Comrade Sam Mugumya several times, and it is deeply painful to see a man who was once able to walk normally now being helped to walk,” Balimwezo said.
The Lord Mayor noted that Mugumya has a family that depends on him, saying his condition should evoke concern regardless of political or other differences.
He urged Ugandans to approach the matter from a humanitarian perspective, stressing that disagreements should not remove compassion for those facing difficult circumstances.
“We are all human beings. Whatever our differences, let us have mercy and compassion for one another,” he said.
Balimwezo also reflected on the consequences of how people treat one another, warning that actions taken against others can eventually affect their own families and communities.
“We came into this world with nothing and will leave with nothing. What we do to others can one day affect our own children, friends, relatives and loved ones,” he added.
Mugumya’s condition has attracted renewed attention after a video emerged showing him apparently struggling to walk while being supported. The circumstances surrounding the footage and his physical condition have become a subject of concern among his supporters and political figures.
Balimwezo further acknowledged Afande Herbert Matanda for raising concerns about alleged acts of violence and torture, calling for greater attention to allegations involving the treatment of detainees.
His remarks come amid wider debate in Uganda over the treatment of political activists and opposition supporters in detention, with government authorities and opposition figures frequently differing over allegations of abuse and unlawful detention.
Balimwezo called for a different approach, urging Ugandans to prioritise humanity, accountability and compassion rather than cruelty.
His comments add to growing public scrutiny surrounding Mugumya’s situation, as calls continue for greater transparency regarding his welfare and the circumstances that led to his apparent physical difficulties.