Uganda: Tension Erupts Outside Butambala Court As Kivumbi Supporters Chase Away Magala

By Sulaiman Ssebugwawo

Tension flared outside the Butambala Chief Magistrate's Court on Tuesday after supporters of Butambala County Member of Parliament Muwanga Kivumbi chased away local political figure Hajj Sulaiman Magala from the court premises.

The supporters had gathered in large numbers ahead of Kivumbi's scheduled court appearance but were locked out of the court grounds after security personnel restricted access, citing security concerns.

Tempers escalated when Magala arrived at the scene. A section of supporters confronted him, accusing him of failing to support Kivumbi during his political challenges and alleging that he sided with Kivumbi's opponent, Eriasa Mukiibi Sserunjogi, in the recently concluded elections.

The crowd claimed Magala was attempting to portray himself as sympathetic to Kivumbi's situation despite what they described as a lack of prior support.

Amid chants and jeers, Magala reportedly retreated to his vehicle -- a black Toyota Harrier -- and left the area as supporters continued to vent their anger.

Security personnel intervened to prevent the situation from escalating further, maintaining order outside the court as the crowd remained gathered.

Kivumbi was expected to reappear in court for a ruling on alleged human rights violations in the terrorism-related proceedings against him and 24 other suspects.

The case continues to draw significant public attention, with strong emotions evident among his supporters.

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