Former Butambala County Member of Parliament Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has been released on bail after spending 169 days on remand over terrorism charges connected to violence that followed Uganda’s January 2026 general elections.
The National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy president for Buganda was granted bail by the International Crimes Division of the High Court, allowing him to continue with the legal process while outside custody.
The court set Kivumbi’s cash bail at Shs10 million, while each of his 23 co-accused was granted cash bail of Shs1 million.
Kivumbi had been held at Kitalya Prison since his arrest in January 2026.
His release means he will remain part of the ongoing court proceedings under the conditions issued by the court.
The charges against Kivumbi and his co-accused are linked to incidents that occurred during the January 15, 2026 general elections in Butambala District.
Prosecutors allege that Kivumbi and the other accused were involved in attacks targeting Kibibi Police Station and the Butambala Electoral Commission tally centre.
According to the allegations presented by prosecutors, the incidents resulted in destruction of property, damage to vehicles, and the deaths of seven people.
However, Kivumbi and his co-accused have denied all charges brought against them.
The bail decision does not end the case, meaning the accused will still be required to appear before court as the trial continues.
Court Process Continues
The granting of bail allows the accused to defend themselves while not being held in custody.
In criminal cases, bail is a legal process that permits an accused person to remain free under specific conditions while proceedings continue.
The court’s decision means Kivumbi and his co-accused will now follow the requirements set by the International Crimes Division as they await further developments in the case.
Political Significance
Kivumbi is a prominent figure within Uganda’s opposition politics and serves as NUP’s deputy president for Buganda.
His arrest and subsequent court case have drawn attention because of his political position and the wider circumstances surrounding the January 2026 election-related violence.
The case remains subject to the judicial process, with prosecutors expected to present their evidence while the accused maintain their denial of the allegations.
What Happens Next
Although Kivumbi has been released from custody, the legal proceedings are expected to continue.
The court will continue hearing the case as both the prosecution and defence present their arguments.
For now, the former MP and his co-accused will face the charges while on bail, following the conditions established by the court.
The next stages of the case will determine how the proceedings move forward as both sides seek to make their case before the court.