34 OF 37 NUP SUPPORTERS REMANDED OVER ALLEGED VIOLENCE AT CAMPAIGN RALLY

As Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections, political tensions continue to rise. On Wednesday, the Kanyanya Chief Magistrates Court remanded 34 of 37 National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters, accusing them of inciting violence during a campaign rally for presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) in Kanyanya Zone, Kawempe Division.
Among those detained were boda boda riders, carpenters, students, porters, builders, and even KS TV presenter Priscilla Aketch Jojo. One supporter, Kalyango Muhammed Lugonvu, who is unable to walk, was brought to court supported by others and lay on the courtroom floor in his red NUP attire.
Prosecution claims that statements made during the November 24th rally implied threats against police officers and destruction of property. The accused, represented by lawyers Kato Tumusiime and Kakuru Tumusiime, denied all charges. Three supporters including Lugonvu applied for bail, citing substantial sureties and the bailable nature of the offense. They were granted non-cash bail of 500,000 shillings each. The remaining 34 supporters were remanded until November 28th as investigations continue.
This comes just a day after 41 other NUP supporters were also remanded, with only 12 securing bail due to lack of sureties.
The clashes that triggered the arrests began earlier in the week during Kyagulanyi’s campaign at Kawempe South Growers Playground. Tear gas, live bullets, and even canine units were reportedly used to disperse demonstrator’s actions condemned by the Uganda Law Society, comparing the use of dogs to apartheid-era intimidation.
This incident adds to the growing list of NUP supporters previously charged in separate cases of alleged unlawful military drills, including Olivia Lutaya, Eddie Mutwe, Saudah Madada, and Tasi Calvin.
As the 2026 campaigns intensify, Uganda Radio Network continues to track the political climate, court proceedings, and the state of law enforcement in this heated electoral season.
Story by Judith Kukunda, Uganda Radio Network, Kampala.