By Spy Uganda
Butambala County Member of Parliament, Hon. Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, and 24 newly added co-accused have been remanded to prison until February 17 after the prosecution amended the charge sheet in an expanding terrorism case, seeking more time to complete investigations.
The amendment, presented in court, significantly broadens the scope of the case, which initially centered on the legislator alone. Prosecutors told court that ongoing investigations had reached a stage requiring the inclusion of additional suspects, transforming the matter into a multi-accused terrorism file.
According to the State, the alleged offences are complex and security-sensitive, with elements described as transnational in nature. The prosecution argued that more time is necessary to finalize investigations before the case can be committed to the High Court, which has jurisdiction over capital offences such as terrorism.
Defense lawyers strongly opposed the continued remand, accusing the State of conducting a “fishing expedition” and subjecting the accused to punitive pre-trial detention. They argued that repeated amendments and the addition of suspects without substantive evidence being presented in court violate the rights of the accused.
In her ruling, however, the presiding magistrate said the court’s discretion was limited given the gravity of the charges and the status of investigations, ordering that all accused persons remain on remand until February 17.
Background
Hon. Muwanga Kivumbi’s legal troubles began after security agencies linked him to alleged activities said to contravene the Anti-Terrorism Act. Authorities claim intelligence reports pointed to coordination, facilitation, and support of actions considered prejudicial to national security.
A vocal opposition figure and outspoken critic of government policy, Kivumbi was arrested in what authorities described as an intelligence-led operation, drawing national attention and sparking debate among opposition leaders and civil society over the timing and motive of the charges.
While the prosecution maintains the case involves organized efforts aimed at destabilizing public order, the defense insists the charges are politically motivated and intended to silence dissent.
Investigators have since widened their probe to include alleged associates, communication trails, financial transactions, and logistical coordination, with the latest amendment signaling a shift toward pursuing the matter as a broader conspiracy case.
Legal observers note that terrorism-related cases in Uganda often involve lengthy investigations due to the evidentiary burden and the classified nature of intelligence relied upon by the State. The case remains at a preliminary stage, with pleas yet to be taken before a court of competent jurisdiction.
The next court appearance on February 17 is expected to clarify whether the prosecution will be ready to commit the matter to the High Court or seek additional time to consolidate its case.
