UPDF Confirms Masaka Priest Detention; Military Cites National Security

By The Urban Gazette National Desk

Kampala , Uganda

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has officially confirmed it detained Rev. Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira, a Catholic priest in Masaka, citing national security reasons. The admission follows widespread alarm over his disappearance earlier this week, prompting demands from the public and religious organizations for clarity.
Fr. Ssekabira’s family, parishioners, and civil society groups expressed shock and concern after he went missing during routine church duties. Days of uncertainty fueled public outcry, with social media campaigns calling for his safe return.

In a statement released Monday morning, the UPDF explained the priest was taken “for questioning related to matters of national security” but declined to provide specific allegations. Officials assured that he is being treated in accordance with national law and will be released “once questioning concludes.”

The incident coincides with reports of other abductions in Kampala and Masaka, where a mother and her 13-year-old daughter were forcibly taken, although authorities have not linked these cases to Fr. Ssekabira’s detention. Civil society leaders are pressing for transparency and judicial oversight, warning that such detentions could erode public trust in security institutions ahead of the 2026 elections.

Church officials, including Masaka Diocese leadership, have called for dialogue with security agencies to clarify the reasons for the priest’s detention and ensure the safety of all affected individuals.

Why it matters:
Military involvement in civilian detentions raises concerns about the balance between security measures and civil liberties. The timing and nature of the abduction, particularly of a religious leader, could heighten tensions and prompt scrutiny from human rights groups.

What to watch

UPDF updates and statements from the Attorney General’s office.

Reaction from the Catholic Church and civil society groups.

Developments in the cases of other abducted civilians.

East African Community (EAC) human rights engagement.

International diplomatic responses, especially from regional neighbours.

UPDF confirms detention of a Masaka priest for national security questioning amid growing concern over recent abductions in central Uganda.