On August 22, 2025, the Masaka High Court in Uganda dismissed the bail applications for Edward Sebuufu, popularly known as Eddie Mutwe, and three others involved in serious criminal charges. The decision marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle that has garnered significant public attention due to the allegations of political persecution, allegations of torture, and the serious nature of the offenses committed.
Background of the Case
Eddie Mutwe, who is the head of security for the National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), along with Achilleo Kivumbi, Grace Wakabi (alias Smart-wa Bobi), and Gaddafi Mugumya, have been charged with aggravated robbery, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, malicious damage to property, and threatening victims with weapons. The charges stem from an incident that occurred in May 2024 during a burial ceremony at Manja village in Lwengo district where the accused allegedly assaulted female journalists and mourners, destroyed video cameras and mobile phones, and stole cash.
Bail Application Hearing
The bail hearing was presided over by Masaka High Court Judge Fatuma Nanziri Bwanika. The accused, who had been detained since early 2025, applied for bail, arguing that they had stayed too long on remand without trial, infringing their constitutional rights. Their lawyers also cited personal hardship affecting the accused and their families, particularly Wakabi who has a sick mother.
Prosecution’s Opposition
The prosecution, led by Senior State Attorney Michael Wakosesa, strongly opposed bail. The arguments highlighted include:
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Completion of investigations stating that the matter was ready for trial.
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Risk of accused interfering with witnesses.
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Serious nature of charges and likelihood of the accused absconding.
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Issues with the authenticity and sufficiency of sureties presented by proposed guarantors, including some Members of Parliament who failed to provide proper identification and village introduction letters.
Court’s Decision
The court rejected the bail application, prioritizing the swift prosecution of the case. Judge Nanziri ordered the registrar to expedite the ca use listing for trial. Eddie Mutwe was also ordered to be transferred to Murchison Bay Hospital in Luzira prison for medical attention to treat injuries allegedly sustained during detention.
Bail Application Details for Eddie Mutwe and Others
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Bail Decision | August 22, 2025 |
| Presiding Judge | Hon. Fatuma Nanziri Bwanika |
| Accused Persons | Eddie Mutwe, Achilleo Kivumbi, Grace Wakabi, Gaddafi Mugumya |
| Charges | Aggravated robbery, assault, malicious damage to property, threats with weapons |
| Incident Location | Manja village, Kissekka sub-county, Lwengo district |
| Date of Incident | May 2024 |
| Prosecution Arguments | Investigation complete, witness interference risk, serious charges, weak sureties |
| Defense Arguments | Unconstitutionally long remand, family hardship, presumption of innocence |
| Court’s Ruling | Bail denied; trial prioritized; medical attention ordered for Eddie Mutwe |
| Medical Condition | Mutwe showing torture scars, requires hospital treatment |
| Next Steps | Case scheduled for trial in Masaka High Court |
Eddie Mutwe’s situation has drawn significant attention due to reports of torture and mistreatment. He appeared in court with crutches and visible marks of alleged electrocution and beatings. Despite requests for comprehensive medical care, prison authorities reportedly offered minimal pain management. The Uganda Human Rights Commission declared his detention unlawful at one point, though the military rejected this declaration.
Political and Legal Implications
The case exposes tensions between Uganda’s justice system and opposition political figures. Supporters of Mutwe and NUP perceive the charges and prolonged detentions as politically motivated acts aiming to weaken the opposition. The court’s decision to deny bail reinforces the government’s firm stance on prosecuting these charges amid accusations of human rights violations.
This detailed and structured overview of the bail rejection for Eddie Mutwe and his co-accused provides clarity on the legal proceedings, charges, and broader human rights concerns, while highlighting the gravity of the case and its political significance in Uganda.