The National Unity Platform (NUP) activist Habib Buwembo was sent back to Luzira Prison yesterday evening after he was granted cash bail of 3 million Ugx but failed to raise the money.
Buwembo, who appeared before City Hall Court on November 10, 2023, under Magistrate Edgar Karikire, was released on bail of UGX 3 million cash and UGX 10 million non-cash to each of the surities.
Upon receiving the ruling, Buwembo’s sureties looked around for 3 million UGX, but all in vain, and he was taken back to Luzira prison until the money was paid and proof of payment was presented before the court to order his release.
Robert Mayanja, one of the activists and human rights defenders, criticised political parties that don’t visit remanded activists and supporters in prisons and raise money for bail release.
“NUP knew that Buwembo was to appear in court for his bail hearing on Friday morning; as a party, they should have mobilised funds to support their activist and at least get him bail,” Mayanja said.
“In fact, on Thursday, NUP chairman for mobilisation Fred Ssentamu Nyanzi, who is a very close friend to Buwembo, was in the same court for a bail hearing, and he knew Buwembo needed money for bail. As a party, they should be there for their foot soldiers and activists; otherwise, it brings down the spirit of activism,” Mayanja added.
“NUP has been putting the government under pressure to produce political prisoners in courts of law, but even after being produced, the party has not cared to secure for them some small funds for bail, and this is very unfortunate,” Mayanja wondered.
Buwembo is expected to be back in the same court on November 28, 2023, for a further hearing.
Habib Buwembo has been in jail since September 22, 2023, after he was arrested in Nalukolongo, Rubaga Division, for unlawful assembly. Buwembo and three others had organised a press conference where they intended to address the media about the Karamoja iron sheets saga.
