Former Butambala County MP Muwanga Kivumbi has resurfaced after 18 days in mysterious circumstances, with unknown security operatives reportedly taking him to Nateete Police Station before whisking him away to Butambala Chief Magistrate’s Court.
The dramatic developments unfolded at around 9:30 a.m. as Kivumbi’s lawyers and National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders were attending the High Court hearing of his habeas corpus application.
They were alerted that Kivumbi had been brought to Nateete Police Station and immediately rushed there together with family members. However, access to him was reportedly blocked before security officers transferred him to Butambala Court under tight security.
Kivumbi disappeared about 18 days ago after he was allegedly picked up by plain-clothed security operatives, triggering demands from his family and lawyers for his release.
Earlier, the High Court had directed the Chief of Defence Forces, the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General to establish his whereabouts and file affidavits before the case returns to court on July 29.
Police told court they were not holding Kivumbi, while the UPDF also denied having him in custody. In an affidavit, Lt. Col. Edgar Musasizi, the UPDF Director of Civil Affairs, said the military had not detained Kivumbi since he was granted bail by the High Court.
Attention has now shifted to Butambala Chief Magistrate’s Court, where authorities are expected to reveal the charges, if any, against the former legislator.
