Kivumbi and 24 Others Seek Bail in Terrorism Case

Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, the outgoing Member of Parliament for Butambala County and a National Unity Platform (NUP) official, has joined 24 other individuals in seeking bail. The bail application has been filed before the International Crimes Division (ICD) of the High Court in Kampala.

Kivumbi and his co-accused are currently facing terrorism charges. Their arrests occurred between January 14 and January 21, 2026, leading up to the general elections. Initially, the group faced charges of incitement to violence and malicious damage to property.

However, the prosecution later withdrew these charges and amended the indictment to include terrorism. Kivumbi, arrested on January 21, 2026, was detained before being remanded to Kitalya prison. The applicants argue their prolonged detention without trial violates their constitutional right to the presumption of innocence.

In his affidavit, Kivumbi, a 52-year-old legislator, highlights his permanent residence and strong community ties, asserting he is not a flight risk. He has served as an MP for 15 years and currently heads the parliamentary committee on Cosase. The defense cites legal provisions entitling them to bail, emphasizing their compliance with court orders and lack of prior criminal records.

Notable individuals, including Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi and NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, have been proposed as sureties. The applicants contend that the High Court, which has jurisdiction over terrorism cases, also has the authority to grant bail pending trial.

The charge sheet alleges Kivumbi orchestrated attacks on Kibibi police station and the Butambala Electoral Commission tally center, actions prosecutors claim were aimed at influencing government decisions and intimidating the public. These alleged attacks reportedly caused significant damage to property, including several vehicles and infrastructure along the Butambala–Gomba road.

The violence is also reported to have resulted in the deaths of seven individuals. Prosecution argues these acts were carried out indiscriminately, posing a threat to national security and disregarding civilian lives and property.

A hearing date for the bail application has yet to be set by the ICD. The accused remain in custody pending further court proceedings and assignment of a judge to the case.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)