The Kawempe Chief Magistrates Court has released twelve supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who were arrested after violent clashes at a campaign event for presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi. The suspects were taken into custody on Monday following chaos that erupted at the rally and along the procession route. They were charged with inciting violence and assaulting security officers.
According to prosecutors, the group—together with other suspects who are still on the run—mobilised large crowds and attacked security personnel who were on duty. State prosecutor Catherine Nakaggwa strongly opposed the idea of granting them bail. She argued that the country’s political environment is currently too tense, and releasing the suspects could encourage similar acts of violence. Nakaggwa also warned that their release might disrupt ongoing investigations.
“Given the current political climate, releasing them now poses a risk because similar offences could easily be repeated, which may lead to loss of lives,” she said.
However, the defence team, led by lawyer Kakuru Tumusiime, insisted that the accused were responsible members of their communities. He explained that all twelve have families and no history of committing similar offences. Tumusiime argued that continuing to hold them in custody would harm their dependants and cause unnecessary hardship.
In her ruling, Trial Magistrate Angella Ayalo sided with the defence, stating that the state had not provided enough evidence to justify denying bail. She granted each of the suspects a cash bail of Shs200,000. Their sureties were bonded at Shs1 million non-cash. The case has been adjourned to December 23 for further hearing.
The ruling brought relief to the families and supporters who had gathered outside the court, many of whom said the arrests were politically motivated. As the country moves deeper into campaign season, the incident highlights the rising tensions and the delicate balance between security operations and political freedoms.
