Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi has raised concerns over restrictions placed on media coverage of proceedings in the case involving former Butambala MP Muwanga Kivumbi.
Ssenyonyi, who is also the Nakawa West MP, said he was at the Butambala Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, August 25, when the court ruled that the proceedings could not be recorded by the media.
“This morning, we were back to the Butambala magistrate’s court for the case involving Hon Muwanga Kivumbi,” Ssenyonyi said.
According to Ssenyonyi, only accredited journalists will be allowed into the courtroom, but they will not be permitted to use recording equipment. He said journalists attending the proceedings will only be allowed to carry a pen and notebook.
The opposition leader described the restrictions as problematic, particularly in a case that has attracted significant public interest.
The latest development comes as Kivumbi faces fresh charges of inciting violence and managing an unlawful society. The prosecution alleges that he made statements during a July 9 gathering in Butambala District that encouraged violence against government officials and promoted efforts to challenge the government.
Kivumbi has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty. His lawyers have also challenged aspects of his detention and have sought his release on bail.
The former legislator had previously been charged alongside other suspects in a separate terrorism case linked to violence reported in Butambala following Uganda's January 2026 general election. He was granted bail in that case in July after spending months on remand.
The new case, however, has kept Kivumbi in custody as his legal team pursues bail.
Ssenyonyi said the court has scheduled September 3, 2026, for the ruling on Kivumbi's bail application.
The opposition leader's comments are likely to intensify scrutiny of the proceedings, particularly over the balance between courtroom restrictions and the public's right to follow cases of significant national and political interest.
Kivumbi remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court. The charges against him are yet to be determined on their merits.