Tensions flared in Rukungiri District on Saturday when supporters of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) forced Brian Akatwijuka, personal assistant to Security Minister Hon. Jim Muhwezi, to leave a burial ceremony.
The incident occurred during the send-off of Denmark Beinomugiasha Adios, a youthful politician who died under unclear circumstances in a hotel. Adios had declared his intention to contest for the Mbarara City South parliamentary seat in the 2026 general election.
As Akatwijuka arrived at the grounds, PFF supporters broke into chants of “Free Besigye,” demanding the release of opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, who has reportedly been held in custody for over 200 days without trial.
Both Dr. Besigye and Minister Muhwezi hail from Rukungiri District, but the minister’s role in the security portfolio has drawn criticism from the opposition, who accuse the security apparatus of orchestrating Besigye’s “illegal detention.”
The burial proceedings resumed after Akatwijuka’s departure, but the confrontation underscored simmering political tensions ahead of the 2026 polls.
