The High Court in Masaka has denied bail to four National Unity Platform (NUP) members — Eddie Mutwe, Aceleo Kivumbi, Mugumya Gadaffi, and Wakabi Grace.
Lady Justice Fatuma Nanziri Bwanika, the Resident Judge, ruled against the bail application, citing serious concerns presented by the State Prosecution.
The ruling was delivered by the court registrar in the presence of the accused and their legal representatives, led by Counsel Samuel Muyizzi.
Mugumya and Wakabi appeared in court in person, while Mutwe and Kivumbi participated via video link.
Justice Bwanika highlighted the gravity of the charges, including aggravated robbery, a capital offense that carries a possible death sentence. She also noted that the alleged crimes led to injuries, particularly to journalists, adding that granting bail would undermine press freedoms and the seriousness of the offenses.
“The prosecution has expressed readiness to proceed with the trial and requested that the case be scheduled at the earliest opportunity,” she noted.
Based on the severity of the charges and the prosecution’s preparedness, the judge ruled that releasing the suspects on bail would not be appropriate at this stage.
The court has instructed the trial registrar to prioritize the case and ensure it is listed for hearing in the earliest available criminal session.
