'Functioning justice system' on presidential candidate Muntu's radar

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Presidential candidate Maj. Gen. (rtd) Mugisha Muntu says justice in the country is suffocated, pointing to the prolonged detention of Opposition leader Col. (rtd) Dr Kizza Besigye and the plight of the National Unity Platform (NUP) prisoners as evidence.

Addressing a campaign rally at Kisenyi ward, Central division in Kapchorwa municipality on November 21, 2025, Muntu, who is the Alliance for National Transformation party flag-bearer, pledged to overhaul the justice system, combat corruption and secure Uganda’s mineral wealth if elected in 2026.

“The NUP youth who were born when we left the bush in 1986 are in prison fighting for the change of government, but the existing laws seem not to be working for their freedoms. NUP political prisoners need justice to get out, which is suffocating,” he said, urging Ugandans to vote for change.

A system ‘suffocated’ by power

Muntu referenced the continued imprisonment of four-time presidential candidate Besigye, who has been arrested multiple times since 2020, with the latest charges in relation to treason.

“Even the law has not helped Kizza Besigye come out of prison. That’s why the majority of people in Sebei who shunned voting opposition politicians in favour of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government have nothing unique to show for their continued support for 40 years.”

"What do you think is better in Tingey county than those constituencies which have been supporting Opposition do not have in Uganda?" Muntu asked.

He questioned the fairness of a system that has endured “40 years in power,” asking, “Why do you think the ordinary citizens will get justice in Uganda after 40 years in power when Besigye, who is known, has failed and is languishing in Luzira prison?”

Muntu emphasised restoring term limits once elected in power, lamenting that constitutional amendments removed term limits and the age limit which handed President Museveni absolute authority, undermining checks and balances.

"As the army then, we did not support the term limit change, but the majority of civilians were the ones who pocketed shillings five million to change it. So, that means you have the highest stake in retiring President Museveni in January 2026 for us to have a smooth transition or risk losing what you worked for under his government for the last 40 years," he said.

Re‑shuffling the justice system

Muntu declared plans to “reshuffle the justice system to address the messes” created by what he calls decades of political dominance.

“Term limits were removed in our Constitution, as well as age limits. So, I want to reshuffle the justice system to address the messes,” he declared, promising to restore judicial independence and accountability.

He drew parallels to his military career, noting, “When I was still in the army, I would draw the line where any soldier can cross. I did not steal government money, and my record has been clean.”

Muntu asserted his integrity, stating, “I have been tested by high rank, getting money in my position, but I never did bad to my country, why can’t you elect me who has the skill to manage corruption, manage security services and preside over our economy?” he emphasised.

Corruption and land grabbing

Muntu said corruption remains a major obstacle to development, exacerbating poverty. “Do not be scared of poverty, but it is corruption affecting us."

There are wolves in the Government who want to steal all your land, which has mineral wealth in it,” he added, urging citizens to support his bid to fight graft and protect national resources.