The State has opposed the bail application filed by former Butambala County Member of Parliament Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi and his 24 co-accused, who are facing terrorism charges, arguing that the application lacks merit.
The objection was raised by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Thomas Jatiko and Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka in documents filed before the High Court.
The applicants, who filed their bail application on May 4, 2026, are seeking temporary release pending trial.
Through their lawyers, M/S Alaka & Company Advocates and Lukwago & Company Advocates, they argue that they are presumed innocent, have fixed places of residence, strong community ties, substantial sureties, and that their continued detention amounts to unconstitutional prolonged remand.
In his affidavit, Kivumbi told the court that he is a 52-year-old family man and former Butambala County MP who served for approximately 15 years.
He stated that he has permanent residences in Buwate Village, Kira Municipality in Wakiso District, and Bugoye Village in Butambala District.
He further pledged to comply with any bail conditions imposed by the court.
The co-applicants also maintain that they have consistently attended court proceedings since their arrest between January 14 and January 21, 2026.
The 24 co-accused are Bruhan Matovu, Karam Bukenya, Wilson Muyinda, Waigoina Abdul Swaburu, Kiberu Hecklous, Kasoozi Fahad Kiiza, Kelvin Kayanja, Twain Ssesanga, Brian Ssewanyana, Brian Muwanguzi, Nicholas Walakira, Musa Ssekabo, Joseph Wakikaatu, Rahim Mubiru, Donovan Ssentongo, Madinah Namaganda, Hannifah Nakibuuka, Paul Mawanda, Jackson Bumbi, Peter Baribuza, Mukiibi Yusuf Kwamira, Ivan Akankwasa, Yusuf Ramathan Kiwanuka, and Brian Owori.
A legal team led by former MP Medard Lubega Sseggona made oral submissions before Justice Okalany in support of the application.
Among the sureties presented for Kivumbi are the Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, his sister Sarah Lutaaya, and his brother Musa Lutaaya, whom the defence described as substantial and capable of ensuring compliance with bail conditions.
However, in an affidavit, Detective Assistant Superintendent of Police John Mary Lwebuga strongly opposed the application, arguing that it lacks merit and should be dismissed in the interest of justice.
The accused remain in custody at Luzira Upper Prison, Kigo Prison, Kitalya Mini-Max Prison, Luzira Women’s Prison, and Naguru Remand Home as the court continues to consider their bail application.
By Alex Magala
1st June 2026
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