Butambala County outgoing Member of Parliament Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi has been charged with terrorism following a series of violent attacks in Butambala District that left seven people dead, according to prosecutors. Kivumbi, who is also the Deputy President of the National Unity Platform (NUP) for Buganda, appeared under heavy security at the Butambala Chief Magistrate’s Court before Chief Magistrate Deogratius Ssejjemba.
Security was tight at the court premises as a convoy of vehicles escorted the MP to court. Kivumbi was initially escorted into the courtroom without handcuffs but was later directed by the magistrate to take position in the dock as proceedings commenced.
The prosecution, led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Rachael Bikhole, told court that Kivumbi and other suspects still at large allegedly coordinated and carried out violent attacks in the areas of Kibibi and Gombe in Butambala District. Prosecutors allege that the incidents occurred on dates spanning between November and mid-January and were intended to intimidate the Government of Uganda and the public for political purposes.
According to the charge sheet, the accused is alleged to have planned and orchestrated attacks on Kibibi Police Station, Butambala Police Station and offices of the Electoral Commission in the district. The prosecution further alleges that the violence resulted in extensive destruction of property, including damage to sections of the Butambala–Gomba road and several motor vehicles, among them a Toyota Land Cruiser, a Ford double cabin, a Subaru, a Toyota Raum and a Toyota Spacio.
Seven people are reported to have lost their lives during the unrest. The deceased were identified as Sarah Naggayi, Aisha Nabukenya, Milly Nampereza, Ruth Nakanjako, Nsamu Abdulnoor, Shafik Miiro and Davis Basaliza. Prosecutors described the alleged acts as indiscriminate and prejudicial to national security and public safety.
Before the charges could be formally read, Kivumbi asked the court for time to consult his lawyers and requested access to his mobile phone to contact them. The prosecution objected, stating that the phone was being held as an exhibit and remained subject to ongoing investigations. Chief Magistrate Ssejjemba subsequently granted a one-hour recess to allow the accused to consult his legal team.
The magistrate noted that terrorism is a capital offence under Ugandan law and is only triable by the High Court, which has original jurisdiction over such matters. As a result, Kivumbi was not required to enter a plea before the Chief Magistrate’s Court. Terrorism carries a maximum penalty of death upon conviction.
Kivumbi was remanded until February 3, 2026, and will continue to appear before the magistrate’s court for mention as investigations proceed, pending committal to the High Court. He is among several senior NUP officials reportedly arrested following the January 15, 2026, general elections.
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