Hon. Miria Matembe Granted Bail in Sectarianism Case

By: Eriiso News Desk

Kampala, Uganda — Former Ethics and Integrity Minister Hon. has been granted bail by the Grade One Magistrate's Court in Luzira after spending several days in custody over charges of promoting sectarianism.

Matembe, 73, was arrested last week following remarks she allegedly made about . Prosecutors contend that her statements amounted to promoting sectarianism, an allegation she denies.

Her release on bail was welcomed by supporters, lawyers, opposition politicians, and civil society activists, many of whom have questioned the basis of the charges and described the prosecution as an attack on freedom of expression.

The case has generated widespread public debate, with critics arguing that the charges could discourage open political discussion. Government authorities, however, maintain that the law applies equally to all citizens and that the matter should be determined by the courts.

Matembe, a former minister and long-serving advocate for governance reforms, is expected to return to court on a date that will be communicated by the trial magistrate as investigations and proceedings continue.

The case is likely to remain under close public scrutiny because of its implications for political expression, enforcement of laws on sectarianism, and Uganda's broader democratic landscape.