10 NUP Leaders Charged with Illegal Drilling Including Mufumbiro, Eddie Mutwe, Denied Bail

By Kabuye Ronald
The Kawempe Chief Magistrate’s Court has denied bail to 10 members of the National Unity Platform (NUP), including prominent figures such as Edward Ssebuufu, widely known as Eddie Mutwe, Achileo Kivumbi, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, Doreen Kaija, and Sauda Madada.

Chief Magistrate Damalie Agumasiimwe cited concerns over weak sureties and a high risk of interference with ongoing investigations. The group is facing charges of unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and related offences.

In her ruling, Magistrate Agumasiimwe stated that most of the sureties presented by the defence failed to meet the legal threshold of being “substantial.” She also noted that many of them were fellow NUP leaders, raising concerns that they could obstruct justice by shielding witnesses—several of whom are reportedly affiliated with the same political party.

“The likelihood of interference with witnesses is high, given that both the accused and potential witnesses belong to the same political group,” the magistrate ruled.

Defence lawyers, led by Samuel Muyizzi, condemned the decision as unjust and indicated plans to appeal after consulting with their clients.

State prosecutors confirmed that investigations are still ongoing and requested an additional month to complete inquiries. The case has been adjourned to October 24, 2025.