Butambala County Member of Parliament Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has today returned to the International Crimes Division (ICD) of the High Court as the court continued hearing a bail application filed by him and several co-accused facing terrorism charges linked to post-election violence in Butambala District.

Kivumbi, alongside approximately 24 others, was arrested in January following violent incidents that erupted in the aftermath of Uganda’s 2026 General Election. Prosecutors accuse the group of orchestrating attacks on Kibibi Police Station and the Butambala Electoral Commission tally center between January 11 and January 17, 2026.

The State alleges that the attacks were intended to intimidate the government and members of the public for political purposes, resulting in deaths, destruction of property, and widespread unrest. Reports indicate that at least seven people lost their lives during the violence.

The accused persons have denied all the allegations, insisting that the charges are politically motivated and aimed at silencing opposition voices following the elections.

Monday’s proceedings before Justice Susan Okalany focused on the continued consideration of bail applications after the court directed several sureties to submit additional personal information and credentials to support their suitability.

Defense lawyers argued that the accused have spent months on remand without the case being fully committed to the High Court for trial, describing the prolonged detention as unconstitutional and a violation of their clients’ rights.

“Our clients are presumed innocent until proven guilty. They have fixed places of residence, substantial sureties, and are willing to comply with any conditions that the court may impose,” the defense team submitted.

The legal team further maintained that the accused persons pose no flight risk and should be allowed to prepare their defense while out on bail.

The prosecution, however, strongly opposed the application, arguing that investigations into the matter are still ongoing and that releasing the accused could interfere with witnesses and compromise the case.

State Attorney Johnmary Luwebuga told court that the charges are serious and carry significant public interest.

“The gravity of the offences, the stage of investigations, and the possibility of witness interference remain key concerns for the prosecution,” the State submitted.

Kivumbi’s sureties, including Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi and close family members, have previously appeared before court to demonstrate their ability to ensure his compliance with bail conditions.

The case, which initially commenced before the Butambala Chief Magistrate’s Court, was later transferred to the International Crimes Division for consideration of bail and other related applications. The magistrate’s court repeatedly remanded the accused while citing limited jurisdiction over the terrorism charges.

Justice Okalany did not immediately deliver a ruling on the bail request, leaving the accused and their supporters awaiting the court’s decision.

Should bail be granted, the accused may be released under strict conditions, including reporting requirements and restrictions imposed by the court. If denied, they will remain on remand as prosecutors prepare for trial.