Sheikh Umar Muwonge has made an emotional appeal for the return of his children following his release from prison, while also revealing major changes he says he discovered after returning home.
Muwonge was released after the International Crimes Division of Uganda’s High Court ruled that the time he had already spent behind bars was equivalent to the sentence he would have received. The decision followed his prolonged legal battle involving charges related to aggravated child trafficking and other offences.
Following the ruling, Muwonge became emotional and knelt in gratitude, describing the decision as a lifeline.
But his first days of freedom have, according to the cleric, brought a different set of challenges.
Speaking to the media, Muwonge claimed that his household had changed significantly during his time behind bars. He alleged that the person he blames for his imprisonment had taken away his wives and dismissed workers who had been employed at his home.
“All my wives were taken by the person who got me sent behind bars. He fired the workers who were here.”
Muwonge said his biggest concern, however, is finding his children.
He publicly appealed to anyone who may know their whereabouts to return them, placing particular emphasis on his son, Umar Kamoga Jr., whom he said he has not seen.
“Despite whatever happened, even when my wife, Mama Umar, was snatched, I plead with him. He can take the woman, but I request you to return my child. I don’t know where my son is, Umar Kamoga Jr.”
Muwonge further claimed that DNA evidence establishes that Umar Kamoga Jr. is his biological son. He also identified Myra Sofie Nakanwagi as his daughter.
“That son is totally mine, and the DNA proves it. Myra Sofie Nakanwagi is also my daughter.”
Beyond his family situation, Muwonge said his return to freedom could also mark a new chapter in his personal life. He revealed that he is considering marriage again but said he would not promise a future wife that she would be his only spouse.
“Now, I’m looking forward to getting married again. I’m single, and I can’t promise someone’s daughter that I’m going to marry you alone.”
Muwonge also announced a break from the clan lineage he previously belonged to. He alleged that members of his former clan had plotted against him and accused them of trying to take control of property and affairs that he previously managed.
He said he no longer considers himself part of the Ngabbi Clan or the lineage of Zayidi Kasozi.
Instead, Muwonge said he now identifies with the Mbizzi Clan and has abandoned the name Kassim Muwonge.
“I now belong to the Mbizzi Clan, and my totem is alcoholic drinks. From today, I’m Sheikh Umar Kamogo. I dumped the Kassim Muwonge name.”
For Muwonge, his release therefore appears to be more than a return home. It has also brought renewed public attention to his family, his children, and the identity he says he will carry into his next chapter.