NUP’s Waiswa Mufumbiro, Saudah Madaada Remanded Until September 29

By Our Reporter

Two prominent National Unity Platform (NUP) officials have been remanded to prison after facing serious criminal charges at Kawempe Magistrate’s Court. Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro and party official Saudah Madaada appeared before Grade One Magistrate Damalie Agumaasiimwe, where they were charged with unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and other related offenses.

The court ruled that both Mufumbiro and Madaada will remain in custody until September 29, 2025, allowing authorities additional time to continue investigations. The case has attracted significant attention, given the involvement of high-profile political figures alongside potentially serious criminal allegations.

Supporters of the NUP have expressed concern over the arrests, calling for fair treatment and strict adherence to legal procedures. Meanwhile, law enforcement officials emphasized that the charges form part of ongoing efforts to uphold the law, stressing the seriousness of the alleged conspiracy and illegal drilling activities.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday morning, Mufumbiro claimed that security operatives had detained him since Monday and pressured him to abandon his support for NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) — a request he says he refused.

“While in detention, they asked me to stop supporting Robert Kyagulanyi, which I declined. I believe my arrest is politically motivated and driven by my rivals,” he said.

Mufumbiro also denied involvement in the alleged illegal parade organised by NUP at their Makerere-Kavule headquarters in February.

“I was not part of the parade as I was not even around at the time,” he added.

The arrest comes amid a widening crackdown on NUP members. On Monday, five additional party members — Tasi Calvin (Bobi Giant), Lukenge Sharif, Nyanzi Yasin, Kaweesi Tonny, and Ssemakula Edwin — were added to the charge sheet. They join Edward Ssebuufu (Eddie Mutwe) and Achileo Kivumbi, who were the first to be charged.

On Tuesday, Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) spokesperson Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye reiterated that all those involved in the alleged illegal parade “will be brought to court,” emphasizing the army’s commitment to law enforcement.