Uganda MP Muwanga Kivumbi Charged After Reappearance

Former Butambala County MP Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, a deputy vice‑president of the National Unity Platform, resurfaced 18 days after being taken by unknown security operatives. He was first taken to Nateete Police Station and then transferred under tight security to the Butambala Chief Magistrate’s Court.

At the court, Grade‑One Magistrate Amina Wahabu charged Kivumbi with inciting violence and managing an unlawful society under section 53 of the Penal Code Act. He pleaded not guilty and, through his lawyer Medard Lubega Ssegona, sought bail. The magistrate remanded him to prison pending a mention hearing scheduled for 11 August 2026. The prosecution alleges that Kivumbi, during a public gathering in Bugoye Village on 9 July 2026, encouraged the public to overthrow the Ugandan government and wage war against it.

The case follows a High Court order that the Chief of Defence Forces, the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General determine Kivumbi’s whereabouts. Both the police and the Uganda People’s Defence Force denied holding him. The legal proceedings continue as his bail application is considered.