Prominent political activist and National Unity Platform (NUP) member Saudah Madaada has regained her freedom after spending one year and nine days in state custody.
Madaada, a close ally and key member of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu’s (Bobi Wine) private security team, was released following an arduous legal ordeal that sparked widespread outcry among human rights advocates and political supporters.
Background and Controversial Arrest
Saudah Madaada was intercepted by security forces at the Busia border on September 9, 2025, while attempting to cross into Kenya. Following her arrest, she faced controversial state charges, including “unlawful military drilling,” which stemmed from a mock birthday parade organized by NUP supporters.
Throughout her confinement, Madaada was repeatedly denied bail despite her defense team arguing that her prolonged pre-trial detention violated constitutional limits and statutory rights to mandatory bail.
Health Crises in Custody
Her time in detention was marked by severe health emergencies that drew public alarm regarding the treatment of political prisoners. In November 2025, Madaada collapsed and vomited blood while held in the Kawempe Court holding cells. The medical emergency prompted a presiding judge to order an immediate evacuation via ambulance to Mulago National Referral Hospital for specialized care.
Despite her deteriorating medical condition, requests for sustained release on medical grounds were repeatedly stymied, prolonging her remand.
Release and Continued Calls for Justice
Confirming her release, NUP Secretary-General David Lewis Rubongoya welcomed Madaada back, acknowledging the intense physical and emotional toll her extended custody had taken.
According to party officials and legal representatives, Madaada’s release came after she was ultimately pushed into entering a guilty plea following multiple failed bail applications and repeated court adjournments.
While NUP leadership and family members celebrated her return, party officials reiterated their demands for the unconditional release and fair trial rights of all remaining political detainees still held in various custody facilities across the country.
