Former Butambala County MP Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has been granted bail by the International Crimes Division of the High Court after spending 169 days in custody.
Kivumbi, a senior leader in the National Unity Platform (NUP), had been on remand at Kitalya Prison since his arrest in January 2026 over terrorism-related charges linked to the post-election violence reported in Butambala District.
Court Grants Kivumbi Temporary Freedom
The court decision allows Kivumbi and 16 other suspects to leave custody as they continue to face the charges against them.
However, six of the accused persons who were arrested alongside Kivumbi will remain on remand.
Details of the bail conditions were not immediately released.
Related: Muwanga Kivumbi and 23 Others Seek Bail in Terrorism case
Charges Linked to Butambala Violence
The prosecution alleges that Kivumbi and his co-accused were involved in attacks on Kibibi Police Station and the Butambala Electoral Commission tally centre during the election period.
According to the allegations presented by the State, the incidents resulted in destruction of property, damage to vehicles and the deaths of seven people.
Kivumbi and his co-accused have denied the accusations.
State Opposed Bail Application
During the bail hearing, the State opposed the application, arguing that investigations were still ongoing.
Prosecutors also raised concerns that releasing the accused could interfere with witnesses connected to the case.
The defence team, however, argued that Kivumbi had permanent residence, reliable sureties and had spent a lengthy period on remand without trial.
Kivumbi’s Political Background
Before his arrest, Kivumbi served as the Butambala County Member of Parliament and held several leadership positions.
He previously chaired Parliament’s Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) and currently serves as NUP deputy president for the Buganda region.
The case will continue as court processes move forward.
written by @enock katamba
- Enock Katamba is a Ugandan Journalist and Founder of Uncovered UG, an independent digital news platform covering Uganda and international developments. He reports on politics, national affairs, entertainment, sports, business, education and other stories of public interest.
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