Mufumbiro Denied Bail

The Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court has declined to release National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, on bail.

The court has based its decision on grounds that  granting him temporary freedom would jeopardize ongoing police investigations and risk interference with prosecution witnesses.

Mufumbiro faces charges of incitement to violence,  offences allegedly committed when he reportedly urged NUP supporters in Kampala to attack security personnel. 

Mufumbiro who is NUP’s Nakawa East  MP aspirant also faces charges of participating in a miillitary parade, for which he was first remanded by the Kawempe Magistrates Court in September.

Today, he returned before the Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court for a  ruling on his bail application, which he made two weeks ago. The application, presented on November 3rd, included three sureties; his father, wife and the incumbent Nakawa East MP  Eng. Ronald Balimwezo.

However,  prosecution  represented by Mahatima Odongo objected to Mufumbiro’s release on bail while citing the serious nature of the offences and the likelihood that the accused could interfere with witnesses. 

The state also argued that the case is of significant public interest.

In his ruling, Grade one Magistrate Frank Namanya has acknowledged that while Mufumbiro’s sureties are credible and he has a right to apply for  bail, the allegations against him are serious and of public concern. He has further noted that investigations are still ongoing and that, given Mufumbiro’s influential position as NUP’s deputy spokesperson, releasing him could compromise the process of investigations and witnesses.  

The court  has therefore declined to grant bail, advising Mufumbiro to reapply once investigations are complete, and directed the state to expedite the process to ensure a speedy trial.

Mufumbiro  now remains in custody pending further court proceedings