Former Butambala County MP Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has vowed to continue speaking out after his release from detention, rejecting calls for him to remain silent for some time.
Kivumbi said some people advised him to keep a low profile for at least two months after regaining his freedom, but he believes staying quiet would weaken the political struggle he supports.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) vice-president for Buganda said silence would only encourage those who want opposition voices to disappear.
“We cannot keep quiet otherwise, we will have given these guys what they want,” Kivumbi said.
He questioned why anyone would ask him to remain silent for two months and what would happen after that period.
According to Kivumbi, postponing his political activities would not solve the challenges facing Uganda.
He said leaders must continue speaking about issues affecting citizens regardless of the pressure they face.
“There is no better gift you can give them than keeping quiet. I’m not going to do that,” he said.
Kivumbi made the remarks after returning to public life following a period of detention that he says involved abduction, torture and being held without communication.
He said his experiences have strengthened his determination rather than weakened his commitment to political activism.
The former legislator insisted that political leaders have a responsibility to continue demanding accountability and better governance.
Kivumbi said remaining silent after his release would send the wrong message to his supporters and other Ugandans who believe in change.
He argued that fear should not prevent leaders from discussing issues affecting the country.
The NUP leader also dismissed suggestions that his release came as a result of any agreement with authorities.
He said his freedom came through the legal process after his lawyers applied for bail and the court granted the request.
Kivumbi maintained that he has not abandoned his political beliefs and will continue participating in national discussions.
He said opposition leaders should not be expected to stop expressing their views simply because they have faced arrests or intimidation.
According to him, challenges faced by political actors should instead motivate them to continue fighting for what they believe is right.
Kivumbi’s comments come at a time when opposition leaders have continued raising concerns about arrests, detention and political freedoms in Uganda.
He said he understands the risks involved but believes keeping quiet would be a greater loss.
The former MP concluded that he will continue speaking out and engaging citizens, saying he has no plans to retreat from politics.
