NUP deputy spokesperson seeks mandatory bail after 78 days on remand
Through his lawyer, Samuel Muyiizi, Mufumbiro argues that his continued detention violates constitutional safeguards on personal liberty and the right to a fair and timely trial.
National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy spokesperson and Nakawa East Member of Parliament aspirant Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro in a court dock. (Photo by Barbra Kabahumuza)
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Jailed National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy spokesperson and Nakawa East Member of Parliament aspirant Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro has applied to the Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court for mandatory bail after spending 78 days on remand without trial.
Through his lawyer, Samuel Muyiizi, Mufumbiro argues that his continued detention violates constitutional safeguards on personal liberty and the right to a fair and timely trial.
Mufumbiro is facing charges of incitement to violence, with the prosecution alleging that he mobilised National Unity Platform youth in Kampala to attack and murder security personnel, accusations he denies.
He is also battling separate charges before the Kawempe Court related to the alleged participation in prohibited military drills. He is scheduled to appear before the Kawempe court for trial on Wednesday (January 7).
Despite filing an application for mandatory bail, the court on Tuesday (January 6) further remanded Mufumbiro until January 22, 2026, seven days after the January 15, 2026, general elections, meaning he misses out on the opportunity to vote for himself as a parliamentary candidate.
Prosecution, led by Mahatma Odong, informed the court that investigations into the matter are still ongoing.
Odong opposed the bail application, telling Grade One Magistrate Frank Namanya that the expiry of the mandatory remand period does not automatically guarantee release on bail. He urged the court to consider public interest and safety.
Similar arguments were previously relied upon when bail was twice denied to Mufumbiro.
Magistrate Namanya said he required more time to address the legal principles governing mandatory bail and consequently remanded Mufumbiro to January 22, 2026.
Meanwhile, Mufumbiro is expected to appear before the Kawempe Kanyanya Court on Wednesday, January 7, alongside other detained National Unity Platform supporters charged over an alleged military parade staged for Robert Kyagulanyi’s birthday in February last year.