By Infora Media
The Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court has granted bail to Nakawa I councillor Johnmary Ssebuwufu after more than two months on remand over allegations of inciting violence.
Ssebuwufu was arrested on January 14, 2026, following the general elections and later arraigned in court on February 6. He has since been held at Luzira Prison as investigations continued.
His lawyers, Samuel Muyizzi Mulindwa and Jude Byamukama, argued that continued detention without concluded investigations was unjustified, noting that bail is a constitutional right. The prosecution, led by state attorney Mahatma Odongo, asked for more time, saying inquiries were ongoing.
The defence told court that Ssebuwufu is an elected leader with a fixed residence in Kyanja and family responsibilities. They also presented sureties in support of his application.
In her ruling, Grade One Magistrate Sanula Namboozo granted him cash bail of Shs500,000, while each surety was bonded at Shs5 million non-cash. Court ordered him to deposit his passport and submit his National Identification Card for verification through the Electronic Court Case Management Information System.
The magistrate warned that failure to return for hearing would attract a Shs10 million penalty. The matter was adjourned to April 7, 2026, as investigations continue.
Ssebuwufu is among several National Unity Platform leaders and supporters arrested around the January 2026 elections. Some, including vice presidents Lina Zedriga and Jolly Tukamushaba, have since secured bail, while others remain in custody.