Former Ethics and Integrity minister Miria Matembe has been remanded to Luzira Prison after appearing before the Magistrates Court over charges of promoting sectarianism linked to alleged social media posts.
Matembe appeared before Grade One Magistrate Sheila Gloria Atim on Tuesday afternoon, a week after she went missing. She was formally charged under Section 38(1) of the Penal Code Act, Cap 120.
Prosecutors allege that in June 2026, within Nakawa Division, Matembe used social media platforms, including posts attributed to DK TV Uganda, in which she reportedly stated that “all our taxes have been spent on Banyankole women ministers.”
Authorities say the remarks were likely to stir hostility, hatred or ill will among different communities, forming the basis of the sectarianism charge.
The charge sheet, reportedly prepared by investigators under NITA, indicates that the publication is still under scrutiny as investigations continue into its origin, authenticity and wider circulation.
Magistrate Atim ordered that Matembe, 73, be remanded as investigations continue.
“The accused is hereby remanded until July 1, 2026, as investigations into the alleged offence are still ongoing before this court,” she said.
The former Ethics minister in the current government turned a critic and human rights advocate, had been held incommunicado for nearly a week as concerned citizens launched desperate search for her before the court appearance today.
Matembe, a resident of Nsira in Nakawa East, Kampala District, was limping and had to be helped to walk as she was in distress.
Prosecutors told court that inquiries are ongoing to establish the full context of the alleged statements and their potential impact on public order.
“We are continuing with investigations into the social media publications attributed to the accused to determine their authenticity, reach, and intent,” a prosecution officer said.
The case has been adjourned for further mention as authorities continue to gather digital evidence related to the alleged posts.
