The Kawempe Chief Magistrates Court has charged National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro and Sauda Madaada with unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and other related offenses.
The two join a group of seven other NUP members, including Edward Ssebufu, also known as Eddie Mutwe, the head of former presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi (aka Bobi Wine)’s security detail.
According to the prosecution, on February 12, 2025, the nine suspects alongside others still at large participated in a meeting at the NUP offices in Makerere-Kavule. The meeting allegedly involved military-style drills, movements, and formations conducted without authorization, in violation of Section 45(1)(b) of the Penal Code Act.
On Wednesday, Chief State Attorney Sharon Nambuya surprised the defense with an amended charge sheet that formally included the five newly added suspects.
Grade One Magistrate Agumasiimwe Damalie read out four charges to the accused, including unlawful assembly and conspiracy to commit a felony. Prosecutors contend that the gathering at Kavule was not a political meeting but rather an illegal paramilitary training session.
All nine suspects pleaded not guilty and immediately applied for bail, supported by relatives and friends willing to stand as sureties.
However, prosecutors informed the court that they were not ready to respond to the bail applications, citing a heavy caseload. They requested one month to complete investigations, locate additional suspects, and prepare supporting affidavits.
Balancing the prosecution’s request with the accused’s right to a fair and timely hearing, Magistrate Agumasiimwe adjourned the bail hearing to September 29, meaning the suspects will remain on remand for at least three more weeks.
