Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has publicly confirmed that veteran politician and women's rights activist Dr. Miria Matembe is in state custody, ending days of speculation about her whereabouts following a security raid on her home.

The confirmation came on Sunday through a post on X, where Gen. Muhoozi responded to a comment mentioning Matembe by writing, "That one. I have her too." The brief statement is the first public acknowledgement by a senior government official that the former Ethics and Integrity Minister is being held by security agencies.

Matembe's family had earlier reported that they had lost contact with her after security operatives raided her residence in Luzira. According to family members, the officers searched the home and confiscated electronic devices while Matembe was away. Security agencies did not immediately explain the purpose of the operation or announce any charges against her.

Reports indicate that Matembe initially avoided arrest after receiving information about the raid while she was on her routine morning run. She is said to have remained out of sight for two days before being arrested from a friend's residence and taken to military facilities in Mbuya.

The developments also coincided with the temporary detention of prominent human rights lawyers Sarah Bireete and Eunice Musiime. The two activists were reportedly questioned by security agencies over Matembe's whereabouts before being released later the same day. Their release came shortly before Gen. Muhoozi's social media confirmation that Matembe was in state custody.

Dr. Matembe, a former minister, constitutional delegate and long-time advocate for women's rights and democratic governance, has in recent months emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of Gen. Muhoozi and the government's handling of political and human rights issues. She has repeatedly questioned the growing role of the military in civilian affairs and criticized what she describes as increasing political repression.

As of Sunday evening, authorities had not disclosed where Matembe is being detained, whether she has been formally charged, or whether she has been granted access to her lawyers and family. Security agencies have also not issued an official statement explaining the legal basis for her detention.

The confirmation of Matembe's detention has drawn renewed attention from civil society organisations, legal experts and political observers, many of whom are calling for due process, transparency and respect for constitutional rights in the handling of the matter.

The situation remains fluid, with further statements from government authorities and Matembe's legal representatives expected in the coming days.