Miria Matembe Charged with Promoting Sectarianism, Remanded to Luzira

Political activist Miria Matembe, a former minister for Ethics and Integrity, was taken into custody and remanded to Luzira Prison on Tuesday evening. She faces charges of promoting sectarianism, an accusation she denies.

Matembe, 73, appeared before grade one magistrate Sheilah Gloria Atim at the Luzira Chief Magistrate’s court. The prosecution alleges that in June 2026, Matembe made statements on DK TV Uganda suggesting that “all our taxes are being spent on the Banyankole women ministers.” The state contends these remarks could incite hostility against the Banyankole ethnic group.

Her legal team, including representatives from the Uganda Law Society, requested bail, citing Matembe’s poor health and need for urgent medical attention. However, Magistrate Atim deferred the bail hearing until Wednesday, July 1, 2026, stating that no formal bail application had been electronically filed as per current judicial procedures. She also noted the lateness of the hour and the lack of medical evidence presented by the defence.

Matembe, who reportedly experienced severe back pain and required assistance to attend court, was followed by a previous incident last week where security forces raided her home. She was later reportedly arrested at a hotel. While Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba had claimed online that she was arrested for “impersonation,” the charge formally brought against her is promoting sectarianism.

Investigations into the case are ongoing. Matembe remains remanded at Luzira Prison.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/matembe-charged-remanded-over-promoting-sectarianism