By Our Reporter
The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has granted a cashless bail of Shs 5 million to former CID spokesperson Charles Twiine Mansio, who is battling serious hate speech charges linked to incendiary statements against Uganda’s top political and military leaders.
Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi issued the ruling on Monday, allowing Twiine temporary freedom after one month and seven days on remand in Luzira Prison. The court, however, denied bail to his co-accused, controversial political activist Noah Mitala, alias Noah Mutwe, citing the gravity of his charges and lack of substantial sureties.
Mitala is facing accusations of inciting violence, including alleged plans to assassinate President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and his son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, using pavers—a charge that carries serious legal consequences under Uganda’s penal laws.
While Twiine walked free after presenting what the court deemed substantial sureties—including his wife, brother, longtime friend, and a government commissioner—Mitala’s family members were rejected by the court as lacking the necessary status or credibility.
Magistrate Kayizzi advised Mitala to reapply for bail or seek redress from the High Court, noting that his alleged offenses carry national security implications. For now, Mitala remains on remand at Luzira Prison as investigations continue.
Charges: Social Media Explosions and Dangerous Accusations
Prosecutors allege that between January 2024 and May 2025, Twiine used social media platforms to disseminate messages designed to incite violence and stir public hostility against top government officials. Among the claims reportedly posted were calls for attacks on President Museveni and Gen. Muhoozi, labeling the latter a “fat pig and a crook.”
Twiine is also accused of branding Speaker of Parliament Anita Among a “rotten human being” and the “chief sponsor of killings” in Bukedea, as well as calling Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa a “money launderer and fraudster.” Other inflammatory remarks allegedly targeted Gen. James Birungi and members of the Bahima ethnic group, with statements prosecutors say were likely to incite tribal hatred.
Both Twiine and Mitala have pleaded not guilty and maintain their innocence. They are expected to return to court on July 14, 2025, for mention of the case.