Eye Media Reporter | July 2, 2026
KAMPALA – Former Ethics and Integrity Minister and veteran women’s rights advocate Miria Matembe was Wednesday July 1, 2026 released on bail after the Luzira Magistrates Court ruled that she had fulfilled the legal requirements for temporary release as she awaits trial on charges of promoting sectarianism.
Chief Magistrate Gloria Apio granted Matembe bail following submissions from both the prosecution and defence, ending days of uncertainty after the former minister’s arrest attracted widespread public attention.
In delivering the ruling, the court considered several factors, including Matembe’s advanced age, her reported deteriorating health, and the constitutional principle that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty unless a court of law decides otherwise.
The 73-year-old politician also presented four prominent sureties whom the court found suitable to guarantee her appearance whenever required. They included Amuru District Woman MP Lucy Akello, Rushenyi County MP Naome Kabasharira, High Court advocate Prima Kwagala, and policy analyst and lawyer Godber Tumushabe.
Why the State Opposed Bail
State prosecutors had vigorously opposed Matembe’s application, arguing that she had failed to present a national identity card or passport. They further claimed she did not have a fixed place of residence, alleging that she had gone into hiding before her arrest.
The prosecution also questioned the adequacy of the medical documents presented to support claims that her health had deteriorated. In addition, prosecutors challenged the suitability of some of the proposed sureties and argued that she posed a risk of failing to return to court if released.
However, the defence dismissed the allegations, maintaining that Matembe is a well-known public figure with deep roots in Uganda and no history of absconding from legal proceedings. Her lawyers further argued that her age and health required humanitarian consideration.
Charges Against Matembe
Matembe is facing charges under Section 38(1)(d) of the Penal Code Act, which criminalises promoting sectarianism.
The charge stems from remarks she allegedly made during a June interview on DK TV Uganda, where prosecutors claim she said that “all our taxes are being spent on the Banyankole women ministers.” Investigators contend that the statement was capable of promoting hostility and ill will against members of the Banyankole ethnic community.
A Case That Sparked National Debate
The case has generated intense public debate since security operatives raided Matembe’s home in Luzira, prompting her family to report that she was missing.
Her whereabouts were later confirmed by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who stated on social media that the former minister was in state custody.
Matembe, a lawyer by profession and one of the framers of Uganda’s 1995 Constitution, has in recent years emerged as one of the country’s most outspoken critics of the government.
With bail now granted, she will remain out of custody but is required to attend all future court sessions as criminal proceedings against her continue. Failure to comply with the bail conditions could result in the cancellation of her bail and a return to custody.
