Embattled Opposition legislators Allan Ssewanyana (Makindye West) and Muhammad Ssegirinya (Kawempe North) have denied allegations that there were secret negotiations between the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) parties paving the way for their release.

The two legislators say there was no way the two parties could hold negotiations, arguing that they did not commit the crimes they were charged with.

Ssewanyana and Ssegirinya are still battling cases of murder and terrorism but were on February 13, 2023, granted bail by the High Court in Masaka city.

Addressing the media at NUP headquarters at Kamwokya in Kampala on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, Ssewanyana said their release was lawful and that there could not be any secretive negotiations.

The legislator's remarks stemmed from the story that was published on February 14, insinuating that the duo's release was a result of a long con.

"I was released while I was unconscious; I was put in an ambulance and whisked for medical attention," Ssewanyana said.

Ssewanyana, further explained that the duo could not address the media immediately after their release, because they were sick and their doctors had recommended that they rest.

"We are sorry for taking long to talk to you, but this was not intended by any of us. We have been receiving medication," he said.

At one point, Ssewanyana broke into tears as he emotionally appreciated the people he said worked hard for their freedom. He also commended the media for standing with them even in hard times.

On his part, Ssegirinya vowed to start from where he had ended in extending service to his constituents. He added that he had already made some strides by the time of his arrest.

"We are coming back to the people to offer service. We have the duty to deliver and we shall indeed do that," a visibly troubled Ssegirinya said

About the case

Ssegirinya and Ssewanyana are accused alongside five others, including Mike Sserwadda, Jude Muwonge, Bull Wamala, John Mugerwa and Jackson Kanyike of murder, attempted murder, aiding and abetting terrorism stemming from the 2021 spate of killings in Masaka and Lwengo districts of greater Masaka region.

In the wave of murders, unknown assailants using machetes killed 20 people in the area.