Tension is high and anticipation palpable at the Masaka High Court this morning as National Unity Platform (NUP) official Edward Rogers Ssebuufu, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe, and fellow party activists Achileo Kivumbi, Gaddafi Mugumya, and Smart Wakabi appear before the judge to face serious criminal charges stemming from events that followed the burial of former Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya.
By 10:00am, the courtroom was packed to capacity with supporters, family members, and legal observers.
A heavy security presence surrounds the court premises, reflecting the high-profile nature of the case.
The four NUP members are charged with aggravated robbery, with prosecution alleging that on April 24, 2025, in Masaka District, they violently robbed a civilian of cash and a mobile phone during a post-burial procession, using force and threatening violence.
The state claims the accused acted with common intent and in a manner meant to incite chaos and public disorder.
Brought to court under tight security, this marks the first time the accused have jointly appeared before the High Court since their arrests.
Their legal team — led by human rights lawyers Samuel Muyizzi Mulindwa, Benjamin Katana, and George Musisi — is expected to challenge the basis of the charges and petition the court for bail, citing prolonged detention and alleged human rights violations.
Earlier this month, the Uganda Human Rights Commission issued a release order for Eddie Mutwe, declaring his detention unlawful. The military, however, rejected the directive, with Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba responding defiantly and demanding an apology from the Commission.
Outside the court, dozens of NUP supporters gathered in solidarity, chanting slogans and calling for justice and the immediate release of their colleagues.
Police have set up barricades and deployed officers to manage the crowd and prevent disruptions.
Today’s court session is expected to cover the formal reading of charges, review of the state’s readiness for trial, and possibly hear bail applications
