Uganda Former Ethics Minister Miria Matembe Granted Bail in Sectarianism Case
KAMPALA — Dr. Miria Matembe, Uganda’s former Minister for Ethics and Integrity and a veteran women’s rights advocate, was granted bail by the Luzira Magistrates Court on July 1 after being charged with promoting sectarianism.
The 73-year-old politician and constitutional expert appeared before Grade One Magistrate Sheilah Gloria Atim (or presiding officers including Gloria Apio in proceedings) following a period of uncertainty after security operatives raided her home in the Luzira area of Kampala around June 23.
She had been out of public view for several days, prompting concerns from family and lawyers before she was presented in court.
Prosecutors charged Matembe under Section 38(1)(d) of the Penal Code Act, alleging she made statements during a June television interview on DK TV Uganda that were likely to promote hostility, hatred, or ill will against members of the Banyankole ethnic group.
The specific remarks cited by the state include claims that “all our taxes are being spent on the Banyankole women ministers.”
Matembe denied the charge when she appeared in court. Her defense team, which included senior lawyers such as Uganda Law Society Vice President Anthony Asiimwe, argued for bail on grounds of her advanced age, frail health—including reported severe back pain requiring urgent medical attention—and the constitutional presumption of innocence.
They presented sureties including lawmakers and legal professionals.
The prosecution opposed immediate release, citing questions over medical documentation, proof of fixed abode, identity documents, and the suitability of sureties.
Initial bail considerations were deferred, leading to a short remand at Luzira Prison.
On July 1, after extended arguments, the court granted bail.
Matembe was ordered to pay cash bail of three million Ugandan shillings, with her sureties bonded in a comparable amount.
She must report to court as required and refrain from making sectarian statements during the pendency of the case.
Her next appearance is scheduled for mid-August 2026.
Matembe has a long public service record as a former Member of Parliament and delegate to the 1995 Constituent Assembly that drafted Uganda’s current constitution.
She is widely recognized for her work on gender equality, ethics in governance, and women’s empowerment.
The proceedings have highlighted ongoing discussions in Uganda about the balance between protecting national unity through anti-sectarianism laws and safeguarding freedom of expression for public figures and activists. Matembe left court after the ruling and is expected to continue receiving medical care as needed.
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