Former Minister Miria Matembe Remanded Over Alleged Sectarian Remarks

By Peter Luzinda 

Kampala, Uganda — Former Ethics and Integrity Minister Dr. Miria Matembe has been remanded to Luzira Prison after being charged with sectarianism over statements allegedly made against members of the Banyankole tribe.

Matembe appeared before Grade One Magistrate Sheilla Gloria Atim at the Luzira Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, where prosecutors accused her of making remarks capable of promoting hatred, hostility and ill will against a section of Ugandans based on ethnicity.

The charges stem from comments she allegedly made during a televised political discussion on DK TV Uganda earlier this month. Prosecutors told court that the remarks later circulated widely on social media and attracted public concern due to their tribal nature.

According to the prosecution, Matembe allegedly claimed that government resources and opportunities were unfairly benefiting people from the Banyankole community, remarks investigators say violated Uganda’s anti-sectarian laws.

The outspoken former minister denied the charges.

During the session, Matembe appeared in court accompanied by supporters and members of her legal team led by Uganda Law Society Vice President Anthony Asiimwe, together with lawyers Samuel Muyizi and Steven Kalali.

Defense lawyers requested court to grant her bail, citing her advanced age, deteriorating health and fixed place of residence. They argued that she had fully cooperated with authorities and voluntarily appeared before court.

However, Magistrate Atim declined to immediately release her, saying the court needed proper medical documentation before considering claims regarding her health status.

The magistrate consequently ordered that Matembe be remanded to Luzira Prison and adjourned the case to Wednesday for hearing of her bail application.

The proceedings drew attention from political activists, lawyers and journalists, many of whom gathered outside court following the ruling.

Some opposition supporters criticised the prosecution, describing it as politically motivated and aimed at intimidating outspoken government critics. Others defended the charges, insisting that public figures must exercise caution when discussing issues involving tribe and identity.

Dr. Matembe remains one of Uganda’s most prominent female political figures. A former ally of President Yoweri Museveni, she later became a vocal critic of the government, often speaking on corruption, governance and constitutional rights.

Her arrest and remand now add to a growing list of political and civic actors facing prosecution over controversial public remarks in Uganda.