Magistrate Damalie Agumaasiimwe acknowledged that all ten accused had exceeded the constitutional 60-day threshold required for consideration of mandatory bail but emphasized that courts must still weigh the interests of justice, public safety and the integrity of ongoing criminal proceedings before ordering release.
The accused persons, including Eddie Mutwe, Achileo Kivumbi, Calvin Tasi and Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, are jointly charged with unlawful military-style drilling allegedly carried out at the NUP headquarters in Makerere Kavule in February 2025.
In her ruling Magistrate Agumaasiimwe ruled that although the burden shifts to the State after 60 days to justify continued detention, the court retains discretion to deny bail where credible concerns exist.
She directed the prosecution to expedite disclosure and ensure the trial starts promptly, while ordering prison authorities to provide adequate medical care to the accused.
Report by: Betty Zziwa
