The Butambala Chief Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday witnessed heightened security as Butambala County Member of Parliament and National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy president for Buganda, Mr Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, appeared in court following his recent arrest. The session drew the attention of supporters, lawyers and security agencies amid ongoing investigations into allegations linked to post-election disturbances in the district.
Prosecutors informed court that Mr Kivumbi is being investigated over alleged acts connected to violence and public disorder arising from events that followed the conclusion of the parliamentary election in Butambala. The state requested more time to conclude investigations, while defense lawyers raised concerns over the circumstances of his arrest and continued detention. Court adjourned the matter to a later date.
Security agencies have previously stated that the arrest followed incidents in which security personnel were reportedly attacked and public order disrupted in parts of the district. However, Mr Kivumbi has denied the allegations, maintaining that the violence was directed at his supporters and that several civilians were killed during security operations as election results were being awaited.
The National Unity Platform has condemned the arrest, describing it as politically motivated and part of a broader pattern of targeting opposition leaders. Party officials argue that the charges against Mr Kivumbi are intended to intimidate opposition figures and weaken dissent, claims the government has repeatedly denied.
The developments have revived public memories of the 2021 case involving Makindye West MP Mr Allan Ssewanyana and the late Kawempe North MP Mr Muhammad Ssegirinya, who were charged with terrorism and murder in connection with the Greater Masaka killings. Both lawmakers spent extended periods on remand, with the case becoming one of the most contentious legal battles involving opposition politicians in recent years.
Mr Ssegirinya’s prolonged incarceration, deteriorating health and eventual death intensified criticism of the criminal justice process, particularly concerning delays in trial and access to bail. As Mr Kivumbi’s case unfolds, legal observers and civil society groups say it will test the judiciary’s commitment to due process and equal application of the law in politically sensitive cases.
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