Bail Hearing for NUP’s Bobi Young, Achileo Kivumbi, and 21 Others Postponed to October 21

In yet another development underscoring the ongoing struggle for justice and human rights in Uganda, activists Anthony Agaba, commonly known as Bobi Young, and Achileo Kivumbi appeared before the Makindye General Court Martial yesterday for a crucial bail hearing. However, the session took a turn when state prosecutors raised objections concerning the suitability of their sureties, many of whom were close relatives and spouses.

The court, in response, adjourned their cases to October 21, 2024, for further deliberation and a final ruling on their bail applications.

This delay comes amid growing controversy over the trial of civilians by military courts, a practice that the Constitutional Court of Uganda has previously declared unlawful. Despite the court’s ruling, the state has continued to use the military tribunal system to prosecute civilians, particularly activists and opposition figures, sparking widespread concern both locally and internationally.

Kivumbi, a bodyguard to NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi, appeared in court today as the prosecution responded to his bail application.

The state argued against his release, stating that it could jeopardize the integrity of the evidence in the case.

“We have completed our investigation and are ready to proceed with the trial,” said Colonel Raphael Mugisha, the prosecutor.

In defense, Kivumbi’s lawyer, Shamim Malende, refuted the prosecution’s objections, asserting that her client had met all the necessary conditions for bail.

“My client has fulfilled all the requirements for bail,” Malende argued.

The court also addressed Bobi Young’s bail application, with the prosecution requesting more time to examine the specifics of the application and review the sureties.

“We need to evaluate the details of his application and the sureties before proceeding,” Col. Mugisha explained.

The military court will reconvene on 21st October to determine whether Kivumbi and Agaba will be granted bail or remain in custody as the case progresses.

Both men are charged with possession of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) uniforms and other military stores.

As the decision day nears, the outcome could have a significant impact on the legal trajectory of both Kivumbi and Bobi Young.

Human Rights Abuses and the Rise of Political Imprisonment in Uganda

Uganda has seen a dramatic increase in human rights violations over the past few years, particularly targeting opposition politicians, activists, and journalists. The use of military courts to prosecute civilians is a stark example of these abuses. Although the Ugandan Constitutional Court ruled in 2021 that trying civilians in military courts violates the Constitution, the government has defied this decision, continuing to use military tribunals as a tool for political repression.

In this context, the cases of Bobi Young and Achileo Kivumbi reflect a broader pattern of state abuse of power. Both activists, known for their vocal opposition to the government, are among many who have been detained under questionable circumstances. Numerous reports from human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have highlighted the state’s heavy-handed response to dissent. This includes arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, torture, and unlawful detention in military facilities.

The trend of trying political opponents and activists in military courts raises serious questions about the erosion of democratic institutions in Uganda. Activists, journalists, and even ordinary citizens who dare to criticize the government often find themselves behind bars, facing prolonged detention without trial. Some detainees have faced severe torture, and many families are left searching for loved ones who have vanished without a trace.

Growing Global Outcry: #FreeAllPoliticalPrisonersInUganda

There has been growing international attention and pressure to address Uganda’s deteriorating human rights situation. The hashtag #FreeAllPoliticalPrisonersInUganda has become a rallying cry on social media, with activists calling for the release of all those detained for their political beliefs. Ugandans in the diaspora, along with local and international human rights organizations, are advocating for reforms and the immediate cessation of military trials for civilians.

Despite these efforts, the Ugandan government remains defiant, continuing to suppress opposition voices through imprisonment and intimidation tactics. The postponed bail hearings for Bobi Young and Achileo Kivumbi, along with countless others in similar predicaments, serve as a grim reminder of the ongoing abuse of power in the country.

As the world watches, the people of Uganda continue to demand justice and the end of human rights abuses. Their struggle for freedom, fairness, and democracy is far from over.