By Spy Uganda
Outgoing Butambala County legislator Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has been arraigned before the Butambala Chief Magistrate’s Court on terrorism-related charges stemming from alleged election violence during the January 15, 2026, general elections in Butambala District.
Kivumbi, who also serves as the National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy President for Buganda, was delivered to court under heavy security by a team of armed counter-terrorism personnel. The State alleges that the former legislator was involved in organising or inciting acts of political violence that disrupted the electoral process in the constituency.
Despite the tight security presence, Kivumbi appeared calm as he arrived at court. Dressed in a brown chequered shirt, cream trousers, and a navy blue jacket, he was not handcuffed and carried his personal belongings in two plastic bags.
The charges follow accusations raised by President Yoweri Museveni during his victory acceptance speech last Sunday, in which he alleged that Kivumbi led a group of supporters who attacked police officers and Electoral Commission officials during polling. According to police, the alleged incidents disrupted voting activities in parts of Butambala and necessitated security intervention.
During the disturbances, a shooting reportedly occurred, resulting in at least one fatality. However, police have yet to release detailed information regarding the circumstances of the shooting or to clarify whether it was directly linked to the election-related clashes.
Kivumbi has denied the allegations, claiming instead that his home was sprayed with bullets and that he was the intended target of the shooting. He further alleged that several of his supporters were shot dead during the incident.
The January 15 polls in Butambala were conducted amid heightened security, reflecting broader tensions observed in several constituencies across the country. Election day was marked by reports of clashes between rival supporters, allegations of voter intimidation, and confrontations between civilians and security forces.
Kivumbi lost his parliamentary seat to Eriasa Mukiibi Sserunjogi, who contested as an independent candidate.
The court is expected to provide further direction on the matter as investigations continue.
