national 21 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Sheikh Muwonge Released After Serving Time for Child Trafficking Conviction
Islamic cleric Sheikh Umar Muwonge was sentenced to the time he has already served in remand, totaling two years, three months, and 22 days, after being convicted of aggravated child trafficking. He reportedly broke down in tears of gratitude upon learning of his release. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/sheikh-umar-breaks-down-in-court-after-receiving-sentence-equal-to-time-served-for-child-trafficking-5603700
Sheikh Umar Muwonge, a well-known Islamic preacher and television personality, received a sentence equivalent to his time spent on remand after being convicted of aggravated child trafficking. The International Crimes Division of the High Court handed down the sentence, which amounted to two years, three months, and 22 days.
Justice Alice Komuhangi Khaukha found Muwonge guilty of trafficking his 13-year-old niece. During the sentencing arguments, state prosecutors had advocated for a life sentence, emphasizing the severity of the crime, especially given that it occurred within a domestic setting where the victim was completely dependent on the offender. They also raised concerns that many young girls suffer in silence due to fear of losing their financial support.
Upon hearing the sentence, Muwonge reportedly became emotional, breaking down in tears and kneeling before the judge to express his profound gratitude for his impending release. He was a familiar face in Nansana for leading prayers and hosting the ‘Ebisagazi’ program on Spark TV.
The court heard that Muwonge initially brought the girl from her parents’ home to live with him, his wife, and his daughter, while covering her education costs.