Dr. Miria Matembe Granted Bail in Sectarianism Case

The Luzira Magistrate’s Court has granted former Ethics and Integrity Minister Dr. Miria Matembe bail, allowing her temporary release pending trial for charges of promoting sectarianism. Grade one magistrate Sheilah Gloria Atim determined that Matembe met the legal criteria for bail.

The court ordered Matembe to execute a non-cash bond of Shs 3 million, with her sureties also bonded at Shs 3 million each, also non-cash. As conditions for her release, Matembe is prohibited from making statements that could be construed as sectarian and must appear in court whenever summoned until the case concludes.

Magistrate Atim noted that while the offence of promoting sectarianism carries a maximum of five years imprisonment, Matembe’s personal circumstances, including her age (73), lack of prior criminal record, and status as a public figure, weighed in favor of granting bail. The court dismissed claims that Matembe lacked a fixed abode, stating the state could ensure she remains at her residence.

The prosecution had argued against bail, citing concerns about Matembe potentially interfering with investigations and questioning the reliability of her sureties. They also presented arguments regarding her place of residence and alleged failure to produce identification.

The defence, however, maintained that Matembe is a respected public figure and not a flight risk. Matembe has denied the charge, which stems from remarks allegedly made in a June 2026 interview on DK TV Uganda, where she reportedly stated that “all our taxes are being spent on the Banyankole women ministers.” Prosecutors argue these statements could incite hostility against the Banyankole ethnic group.

The case has been adjourned to August 19, 2026, for further investigations.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)