Yusuf Nsibambi, a recent convert to the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has revealed that the government plans to release 80 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who were arrested during the election period.
Prior to and after the elections, over 1,000 NUP supporters were reportedly detained and charged in courts across Uganda. Among those arrested were Dr. Lina Zedriga Waru, NUP Deputy President for Northern Uganda, who was reportedly abducted from her home, and Jolly Jacklyn Tukamushaba, Deputy President for Western Uganda, allegedly taken from Rukiga District on January 14. Both are currently out on bail.
Meanwhile, Muwanga Kivumbi, Deputy President for the Central Region, was arrested, charged, and remanded to Kitalya Prison. Former presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, reportedly went into hiding.
Speaking at a public forum hosted by the Uganda Law Society, Nsibambi accused opposition parties of refusing government-led negotiations, resulting in prolonged detention of their members. He said he presented a list to the president.
“I have talked to Museveni, but he is not willing to let radicals, criminals, and gangs take over. Young men are in prison, and this is my last call and request,” Nsibambi said.
“Let us have these boys and girls go back and reflect on their lives. There should be a fund to rehabilitate them, so they can provide for their families and rebuild their lives,” he added.
Nsibambi presented a list of 50 individuals, including Sauda Madada and Doreen Kaija of NUP, who he claims have agreed to a deal brokered with the government. Madada and other members are expected back in court today for further mentions of their cases.
Among the group facing charges is Mufumbiro and seven other NUP members, including Edward Ssebufu (also known as Eddie Mutwe), the head of Bobi Wine’s former security detail. They are charged with unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and related offences at the Kawempe Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Prosecutors allege that on February 12, 2025, the nine suspects, together with others still at large, held a meeting at NUP offices in Makerere-Kavule, conducting unauthorized military-style drills, movements, and formations, in violation of Section 45(1)(b) of the Penal Code Act.
