Former Butambala County Member of Parliament Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has been released on bail after spending approximately 250 days in custody since his first arrest following the January 2026 elections. Kivumbi, also the National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy President, was granted Shs3 million cash bail by the Butambala Grade One Magistrate Aminah Wahab. His sureties were directed to execute non-cash bonds of Shs2 million each.
The court directed Kivumbi to deposit all his travel documents, including his passport, and barred him from traveling to Butambala except to attend family gatherings. Kivumbi's release follows his latest arrest in July 2026 on charges of inciting violence and managing an unlawful society. The prosecution had opposed his application for bail, arguing that his release could affect public peace and security.
However, Kivumbi's lawyers, led by Samuel Muyizzi Mulindwa, argued that he had a right to bail and had consistently complied with court procedures. The prosecution alleges that Kivumbi made statements encouraging people to rise against the government during a gathering in Butambala in July. Kivumbi has denied the allegations and maintained that the charges are politically motivated.
Kivumbi's latest arrest came shortly after he secured Shs10 million cash bail from the International Crimes Division of the High Court in a separate terrorism case. He was re-arrested two days after his release and taken to the Butambala Magistrate's Court to face the new charges. In the terrorism case, the State accuses Kivumbi and other suspects of involvement in election-related violence.
The alleged violence included attacks on Kibibi Police Station and destruction of electoral property in Butambala during the January 2026 elections. Seven people are reported to have died at Kivumbi's home in the aftermath of the violence. Kivumbi's release on Tuesday was welcomed by his family, NUP leaders, and supporters who gathered at the court premises.
Among those present were Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi and NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya. Supporters outside the court broke into songs and celebrations as Kivumbi's lawyers processed the bail and other documents required for his release. Kivumbi is expected back in court on October 29, 2026, for further directions in the case.
The case has garnered significant attention, with many viewing it as a test of Uganda's judicial system and its handling of opposition figures. Kivumbi's release has been seen as a victory for his supporters and the NUP, who have been critical of the government's handling of the case. The developments in the case will likely be closely watched in the coming months.
Key points
- Kivumbi was released on bail after spending 250 days in custody.
- The prosecution alleges that Kivumbi made statements encouraging people to rise against the government.
- Kivumbi is expected back in court on October 29, 2026, for further directions in the case.
