For the third time, the Kawempe Chief Magistrates Court has denied mandatory bail to 10 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who are facing charges related to unlawful military-style drillings.
The court ruled that the accused had not met the constitutional criteria for automatic release.
The defendants, through their lawyers, had applied for mandatory bail, arguing that they had been remanded for over 180 days without trial, a violation of their rights to personal liberty.
The ten accused individuals include Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, Edward Ssebufu (commonly known as Eddie Mutwe), Achileo Kivumbi, Calvin Tasi (also known as Bobi Giant), Doreen Kaija, and Saudah Madada, among others.
In the ruling, Chief Magistrate Damallie Aguma-asiimwe stated that the accused had failed to demonstrate they had been detained beyond the constitutionally prescribed period without trial, and as such, they could not benefit from mandatory bail under Articles 23(6)(b) and (c) of the Ugandan Constitution.
While agreeing with the prosecution that mandatory bail is not automatic and must be properly substantiated, the magistrate did order that the accused be provided with appropriate medical care if necessary, particularly ensuring Saudah Madada receives proper medical attention.
The prosecution alleges that the accused were involved in organizing a meeting in which individuals underwent military-style drills without authorization from the minister, an act contrary to Section 45 of the Penal Code Act.
The case is set to return to court on January 6, 2026.
By Alex Magala
22nd Dec 2025
