Matembe's Bail Battle: Defence Cites Age, Health Against State's Flight Risk Claims

Luzira Magistrates Court was the scene of a high-stakes legal showdown as the bail application for former Ethics and Integrity Minister Dr. Miria Matembe faced significant opposition from state prosecutors.

Senior State Attorney Mariam Kulusum led the charge against Matembe’s release, arguing that the 73-year-old former minister poses a flight risk. The prosecution also cast doubt on the credibility of Matembe’s sureties, which include several prominent figures like Amuru Woman MP Lucy Akello and High Court advocate Prima Kwagala.

The state contended that Matembe’s age does not automatically grant her eligibility for bail and controversially suggested that if she had indeed fled her home due to security concerns, she no longer had a fixed residence, making her current detention ‘better’.

Further complicating matters, the prosecution questioned the reliability of surety documentation, alleging that some contact details were registered under different names. Tension briefly flared when one surety, Godber Tumushabe, reportedly failed to attend a court session, prompting calls for his disqualification.

In contrast, Matembe’s defence team, led by lawyer Anthony Asiimwe, urged the court to prioritize constitutional bail thresholds over procedural technicalities. They presented Matembe’s passport and national ID, asserting she is well-documented and not a flight risk, given her status as a public figure with strong ties and no history of evading legal proceedings.

The defence also emphasized Matembe’s age and reported health challenges, arguing that continued incarceration would be disproportionate. The magistrate is expected to rule after considering all arguments, with security heightened and public interest in the case remaining significant.

This case is being closely watched by activists and civil society groups as it unfolds at the Luzira Magistrates Court.