Amuria Woman MP Margaret Etilu Expected to Be Released This Week, VP Alupo Tells Parliament

By Skika Reporter.

Vice President Jessica Alupo has informed Parliament that Amuria District Woman MP Margaret Etilu, who has been held in detention for several weeks, is safe and is expected to regain her freedom before the end of the week.

While addressing legislators, Alupo sought to ease concerns over Etilu’s prolonged absence from public view since May 23, a situation that has sparked debate among lawmakers, constituents, family members, and human rights activists.

Describing the detained legislator as “my daughter,” Alupo highlighted her close relationship with Etilu and said government leaders have been engaging security agencies to establish her wellbeing and facilitate her release.

“Honourable Margaret Etilu, the Woman MP for Amuria, is my daughter. She is a sister to some of you and a granddaughter to others, but she is my daughter,” Alupo told Parliament.

The Vice President revealed that some of Etilu’s relatives had been granted access to visit her and confirmed that the legislator remains in good health.

“She is safe, she is healthy, and she will be joining us soon,” Alupo said.

According to the Vice President, government officials have maintained regular contact with law enforcement authorities regarding the matter. She noted that engagements with security agencies were conducted discreetly to allow the process to proceed without unnecessary public attention.

“We have been speaking to law enforcement officers and meeting some of them physically. We did not want to involve cameras because this is a concern that all of us share,” she explained.

Alupo further disclosed that security officials had assured government leaders that Etilu’s release was imminent.

“The latest information I received yesterday is that she will be joining us anytime this week,” she added.

Her remarks followed concerns raised by Members of Parliament over the circumstances surrounding Etilu’s detention and the legal procedures being followed.

The legislator has reportedly not been seen in public since May 23, shortly after leaving the residence of former Speaker Anita Annet Among in Kampala. Since then, uncertainty over her whereabouts has generated speculation and calls for greater transparency from security agencies.

Several MPs, particularly from the opposition, have questioned whether Etilu was formally arrested, where she is being held, and why authorities have not publicly provided details regarding her detention.

The matter has also reignited concerns about compliance with constitutional protections relating to personal liberty, due process, and the requirement that suspects be produced before a competent court within 48 hours.

Addressing those concerns, Alupo said the Attorney General could provide further clarification on the legal aspects of the case and the procedures being followed.

“The Attorney General may wish to clarify whether the actions being taken are legally correct. That can be addressed through an appropriate statement,” she said.

Etilu’s continued absence has become a significant political issue, raising broader questions about accountability, transparency, and the responsibility of state institutions to safeguard the rights of elected leaders.