Three Members of Parliament (MPs) from Uganda’s largest opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), along with seven other individuals, were detained on Monday evening following clashes with police at the party’s headquarters in Makerere, Kavule.
The remanded MPs are Francis Zaake (Mityana Municipality), Hassan Kirumira (Katikamu South), and Charles Tebandeke (Baale County, Kayunga District).
MP Zaake faced three separate traffic offenses after an altercation with police while approaching the party headquarters, where his car was being towed by a vehicle carrier.
Charges Against MP Zaake
- Careless or Inconsiderate Use of a Motor Vehicle
The prosecution alleged that Zaake drove a black Nissan with registration number UBD 184 C carelessly, obstructing the road at Makerere Kavule along Bombo Road without considering other road users. This charge falls under the Traffic and Road Safety Act 2020 as amended. - Driving Without a Valid License
Zaake was also accused of driving without a valid driving license. - Disobedience of Lawful Orders
The state claimed Zaake refused to stop his vehicle when signaled by a uniformed police officer, contrary to the Penal Code Act.
Charges Against Other Accused
The remaining accused individuals, including MPs Tebandeke and Kirumira, faced charges of unlawful assembly.
The prosecution alleged that the group, which included Shamim Nabakoza (a cleaner), Ibra Ssemanda Wasswa (a KCCA councilor), Brian Mungu (an administrator), Sharom Kemigisha (a woman councilor), Emmanuel Mukisa (a driver), Ben Ntale Mukasa (a businessman), and James Mubiru, assembled with the intent to carry out a common purpose, causing reasonable fear of a breach of peace among neighborhood residents.
Court Proceedings
The group appeared before Grade One Magistrate Martins Kirya, denied the charges, and was remanded to prison until Thursday, pending a bail application.
The sureties lacked local council (LC) letters, and the state requested time to verify their documents.
Police Statement
Earlier on Monday, Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke stated at a weekly press conference that the NUP had allowed numerous supporters to gather at their headquarters, despite insufficient space to accommodate them.
