A group of opposition supporters appeared before the Kawempe Chief Magistrates’ Court in Kampala on fresh proceedings in a case where they are accused of unlawful drilling, with additional charges brought against one of the accused.
The accused include Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, described by supporters as a deputy spokesperson within the opposition ranks, Edward Ssebuufu, commonly known as Eddy Mutwe, Achileo Kivumbi, Olivia Lutaaya, Tasi Calvin alias Bobi Giant, and Kaija Doreen, among others.
Dispute Over Closed Session
During proceedings earlier in the day, the State prosecution reportedly sought to have the session conducted via closed circuit, a move that would bar media access. Defence lawyers strongly objected, arguing that the matter should be heard in open court to ensure transparency.
Supporters of the accused, who have described them as “political prisoners,” claim the charges are politically motivated. The State has not publicly commented on the political characterisation of the case but maintains that the charges relate to unlawful drilling activities.
Additional Charge for Waiswa
Court documents indicate that Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro has also been charged with “incitement to commit an offence,” in addition to the original counts.
Legal representatives for the accused have vowed to challenge both the substance of the charges and the prosecution’s procedural applications in court.
Case Adjourned
The matter was adjourned to March 13, when the accused are expected to reappear before court for further proceedings.
The case has drawn attention on social media under the hashtag #FreeAllPoliticalPrisonersInUganda, reflecting broader tensions between authorities and opposition supporters in Uganda’s political landscape.
