Tension marked the legal proceedings for National Unity Platform (NUP) members Edward Ssebuufu, alias Eddie Mutwe, and Achilleo Kivumbi today as they faced fresh charges before the Kanyanya Magistrate’s Court.
The duo, who were earlier in the day at Masaka High Court for a bail hearing, were whisked away under tight security to Kanyanya, where they were arraigned before the media was allowed into the session. Their lawyers later presented arguments for their release on bail.
At Masaka High Court, where Eddie Mutwe and four co-accused — Grace Wakabi, Mugumya Gadafi, Achilleo Kivumbi, and others — appeared for a bail hearing, security was heavy and emotions ran high.
Dozens of supporters, family members, and friends gathered as early as 8:00 a.m., but most were blocked from entering, including those claiming to be sureties.
“This is not fair at all,” said one supporter. “Some of us are sureties for Eddie Mutwe, but we have been blocked. If we are locked out, who will stand surety for our people? The police don’t seem to understand what is at stake.”
The group has spent nearly six months on remand at Masaka Government Prison following their arrest in Lwengo District last year over allegations of assaulting civilians.
Lead defense lawyer Samuel Muyizzi criticized the exclusion of sureties and potential witnesses.
“This is an open court matter. The law considers all Ugandans equal,” Muyizzi told journalists. “We now wonder why our sureties and witnesses are locked out. This taints the image of the judiciary. Justice must be open and seen.”
Reports indicated that those initially allowed inside were asked to leave before the hearing began, raising further transparency concerns. “This treatment undermines the dignity and function of the courts,” Muyizzi added.
The Masaka bail hearing was adjourned to allow both sides to complete submissions. It remains unclear when the ruling will be delivered.
The case continues to draw nationwide attention, with many NUP supporters alleging the arrests are politically motivated.