The Nakawa Chief Magistrates’ Court has denied bail to National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson and Nakawa Division MP aspirant, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, who faces charges of incitement to commit a felony under Section 21 of the Penal Code Act.
Mufumbiro appeared before Magistrate Grade One, His Worship Frank Namanya, for a ruling on his bail application, which had been adjourned for final consideration.
He was represented by a team of five lawyers led by Counsel Samuel Muyizi, who presented three sureties: Mufumbiro’s father, brother, and Nakawa East MP Hon. Michael Balimwezo, all accepted by the court as substantial.
However, the State Attorney opposed bail, citing Section 77(2) of the Magistrates Courts Act and Guideline 13(1) of the Bail Guidelines for Courts of Judicature (Practice) Directions 2022. The State argued that the seriousness of the offence, the potential for witness interference, and Mufumbiro’s pending case at Kawempe Chief Magistrates’ Court justified the denial.
In his ruling, Magistrate Namanya noted that “each case must be considered on its own merits” but agreed with the prosecution that the charge of incitement to commit murder, which carries a maximum sentence of ten years, is grave and warrants careful handling.
The magistrate also cited Mufumbiro’s influential role within NUP, stating that releasing him could pose a risk of witness intimidation or interference.
“As Deputy Spokesperson of a major political party, he holds a position of influence that could be used to intimidate or interfere with witnesses,” Namanya said.
Consequently, the court declined to grant bail and instructed the prosecution to expedite investigations. Magistrate Namanya noted that once investigations are complete, Mufumbiro may renew his bail application.
The case has been adjourned to December 2, 2025, for further mention and potential commencement of hearings on its merits.