Tension gripped the Mukono Chief Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday after bail was denied to Nakisunga Sub-county Chairperson and Mukono South parliamentary hopeful Mubarak Sekikubo, leading to his continued detention at Kauga Prison.
Supporters outside the court erupted in protest, accusing authorities of political persecution.
Sekikubo appeared before Chief Magistrate Gerald Emong alongside Dr Saad Wataba, the medical officer of Lugazi Municipality, and Ronald Mugerwa Saku, the Probation Officer of Lugazi Municipality.
The trio faces charges of obtaining money by false pretence after allegedly defrauding Dr George William Mukisa, a job seeker, of Shs38 million between January and June 2025.
The prosecution claims they promised to help him secure a government medical officer position in Mukono District.
According to the State, the accused told the complainant that the money would be used to “facilitate” members of the Mukono District Service Commission to influence the recruitment process.
Their arrest followed a tip-off to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU).
Defense lawyer Phiona Abaasa sought bail on humanitarian and service grounds, arguing that Sekikubo’s absence was depriving his constituents of leadership and worsening his health condition.
“My Lord, the accused is a serving Sub-county Chairperson whose people are missing his services. His continued remand has caused him serious health challenges. We humbly pray for bail,” she told the court.
However, State Prosecutor Christine Ayebazibwe opposed the application, saying Sekikubo’s political influence could compromise the ongoing investigation.
“Given the accused’s political position, there is a high likelihood of interference with witnesses and evidence. Additionally, his sureties presented insufficient documentation, and his residence remains unclear,” she submitted.
In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Emong agreed with the prosecution, noting that the defense had not presented strong sureties or provided verifiable proof of residence. “Court finds that the sureties presented lack sufficient proof of residence and identification. The accused person’s place of residence also remains in doubt. Therefore, bail is denied,” the magistrate ruled.
Sekikubo was remanded until November 18, 2025. His co-accused, Dr Wataba and Mugerwa, were granted bail of Shs 4 million cash and Shs 10 million non-cash each.
The decision triggered chaos outside court as hundreds of Sekikubo’s supporters chanted slogans denouncing what they called a politically motivated case.
“This is not justice but politics! They fear him because he left NRM to stand as an independent,” one supporter shouted before police moved in to disperse the crowd.
A heavy police deployment restored calm after several minutes of confrontation. The case will come up for further mention on November 18, 2025.