KAMPALA, Uganda — Former Ugandan Ethics and Integrity Minister Miria Matembe has been remanded to Luzira Prison after appearing before a magistrate’s court on charges of promoting sectarianism through alleged social media statements.
Matembe, a former government minister who later emerged as a prominent critic of the ruling establishment and an outspoken human rights advocate, appeared before Grade One Magistrate Sheila Gloria Atim on Tuesday afternoon following days of uncertainty over her whereabouts.
The 73-year-old was formally charged under Section 38(1) of Uganda’s Penal Code Act, which criminalises acts deemed likely to promote sectarianism or create hostility among communities.
According to court documents, prosecutors allege that in June 2026, within Kampala’s Nakawa Division, Matembe used social media platforms to publish or circulate statements that authorities say were likely to promote hostility between different groups.
The charge is linked to posts allegedly attributed to DK TV Uganda, in which Matembe reportedly stated that:
“All our taxes have been spent on Banyankole women ministers.”
Prosecutors argue that the statement was capable of generating hatred, ill will or hostility among sections of the population, forming the basis of the sectarianism charge.
Authorities told court that investigations are ongoing to establish the origin, authenticity and circulation of the publication.
During the proceedings, Magistrate Atim ordered that Matembe be remanded to Luzira Prison as investigations continue.
“The accused is hereby remanded until July 1, 2026, as investigations into the alleged offence are still ongoing before this court,” the magistrate ruled.
The case was subsequently adjourned to allow investigators additional time to gather evidence related to the alleged social media posts.
Matembe’s court appearance came nearly a week after concerns emerged over her whereabouts, prompting public appeals and inquiries from supporters, activists and concerned citizens.
The veteran politician had reportedly been held incommunicado for several days before being produced in court.
Her appearance drew attention from observers after she was seen struggling to walk and appeared physically distressed while entering the courtroom.
Witnesses said she required assistance as she moved through the court premises.
Prosecutors told the court that digital investigations are still underway.
According to the prosecution, authorities are seeking to determine whether the posts originated from accounts linked to Matembe and assess the extent of their circulation and impact.
“We are continuing with investigations into the social media publications attributed to the accused to determine their authenticity, reach and intent,” a prosecution official told the court.
Investigators are expected to examine digital records and other evidence as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Matembe served in President Yoweri Museveni’s government and was once one of the most prominent female figures within the ruling establishment.
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Over the years, however, she became increasingly critical of government policies and emerged as a vocal advocate for human rights, constitutionalism and democratic reforms.
Her prosecution adds to a growing list of high-profile cases involving politicians, activists and commentators facing legal scrutiny over statements made online.
The case is likely to attract significant public interest as questions continue to be raised about freedom of expression, digital speech and the enforcement of laws relating to sectarianism in Uganda.
Matembe is expected to return to court on July 1, 2026, when the matter comes up for further mention.
