Updated by Faith Barbara N Ruhinda at 0943 EAT on Wednesday 30 September 2026
Former Butambala County MP Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has been released on bail after spending a combined 250 days in custody since his first arrest following the January 2026 elections.
Kivumbi, the National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy president, was on Tuesday granted Shs3 million cash bail by Butambala Grade One Magistrate Aminah Wahab.
The magistrate also ordered his sureties to execute non-cash bonds of Shs2 million each. Kivumbi was further directed to surrender all his travel documents, including his passport, and barred from travelling to Butambala except to attend family gatherings.
His release follows his latest arrest in July 2026 on charges of inciting violence and managing an unlawful society. The prosecution opposed his bail application, arguing that his release could affect public peace and security.
However, his lawyers, led by Samuel Muyizzi Mulindwa, argued that Kivumbi was entitled to bail and had consistently complied with court proceedings.
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, describing the charges as politically motivated.
His latest arrest came shortly after he secured Shs10 million cash bail from the High Court’s International Crimes Division in a separate terrorism case. He was re-arrested two days after his release and taken to 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, including attacks on Kibibi Police Station and the destruction of electoral property in Butambala during the January 2026 elections.
Seven people were reportedly killed 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. Those present included Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi and NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya.
Supporters outside the court broke into song and celebration as Kivumbi’s lawyers processed the bail and other documents required for his release.
Kivumbi is expected to return to court on October 29, 2026, for further directions in the case.
-Observer
