Ten members of the National Unity Platform (NUP), including prominent figures such as Edward Ssebuufu (aka Eddie Mutwe), Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, Achileo Kivumbi, Doreen Kaija, and Sauda Madada, have been denied bail by the Kawempe Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Chief Magistrate Damalie Agumasiimwe rejected their bail applications, citing weak sureties and a high risk of interference with ongoing investigations.
The group is facing charges of unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and other related offences.
In her ruling, Magistrate Agumasiimwe emphasized that most of the sureties presented failed to meet the legal threshold of being “substantial” typically defined in Ugandan law as individuals with stable occupations, known residences, and demonstrable integrity, capable of ensuring the accused comply with bail terms.
Key points from the ruling included:
Eddie Mutwe and Achileo Kivumbi: Their sureties were considered too young and lacked the influence needed to ensure court compliance.
Doreen Kaija: One surety did not meet the necessary qualifications.
Sauda Madada: All sureties were deemed insubstantial.
Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro: Although former Nakawa Mayor Ronald Balimwezo stood as a surety, the court found the relationship too distant. However, Mufumbiro’s wife and father were accepted as substantial sureties.
For other co-accused, including Calvin Tasi and Tonny Kaweesi, only some of the sureties were deemed adequate.
The magistrate also expressed concern that many of the proposed sureties were fellow NUP leaders, raising the potential for them to protect or influence witnesses, many of whom are believed to be within the same political party.
“There is a significant likelihood of interference with witnesses, given that the accused and many potential witnesses belong to the same political group,” Agumasiimwe stated.
Defence lawyer Samuel Muyizzi criticized the decision, calling the grounds for denial unjust and signaling plans to appeal after consulting with the accused.
Meanwhile, state prosecutors informed the court that investigations were still ongoing and requested additional time. The case was adjourned to October 24, 2025.
