KAMPALA- A total of 21 young demonstrators, detained during anti-corruption demonstrations on Nasser Road, have been released on bail by the Buganda Road Magistrate’s Court in Kampala.
In addition to the 19 youth protestors, three more individuals arrested in Nakivubo on the same day have also been released on bail. The Buganda Road Magistrate’s Court, filled with family members and supporters of the accused, set the bail at 1 million Ugandan shillings (non-cash) for each defendant, with their guarantors required to provide 500,000 shillings (non-cash) as surety.
Despite concerns raised by the prosecution regarding the accused’s alleged lack of permanent residences, Grade One Magistrate Sanula Namboozo decided to release them on bail.
As part of their bail conditions, the protesters have been prohibited from engaging in any future demonstrations. The courtroom was filled with a mix of tension and optimism as relatives and supporters of the accused, largely associated with the National Unity Platform (NUP), anxiously awaited the magistrate’s ruling.
The court’s decision was welcomed with relief and appreciation by the defendants and their legal representatives. Among those released is David Musiri, leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP) Students’ Wing, who was arrested on July 23, 2024, during a protest against pervasive corruption in Uganda.They face charges of being a common nuisance.
Among these include; Dr Ivan Ssempijja, 27, Nelson Tamale, 25, Trevor Simon Matovu, 27, Eriya Nabulagala, 30, Muhammed Ssentongo, 24, David Mugisha, 28, Robert Kiwanda, 25, Arnold Peter Ssegawa, 22, Galen Mambule, 23, Alex Twikirize, 33, Benjamin Akiso, 24, David Musiri, 34, Bruno Kamoga, 24, Edward Lutaya, 28, Isaac Mukiibi, 23, Kemittoma Nyina’Nkyenzibo, 28.
