Former Minister Miria Matembe Charged with Sectarianism, Remanded to Luzira

Former Ethics and Integrity Minister Miria Matembe has been remanded to Luzira Prison after appearing before the Magistrate’s Court to face a charge of promoting sectarianism over alleged social media remarks.

Matembe appeared before Grade One Magistrate Sheila Gloria Atim on Tuesday, nearly a week after she was reported missing. She was charged under Section 38(1) of the Penal Code Act.

According to prosecutors, the alleged offence was committed in June 2026 in Nakawa Division. They claim Matembe used social media, including posts attributed to DK TV Uganda, in which she allegedly stated that “all our taxes have been spent on Banyankole women ministers.”

The prosecution argues that the statement was likely to promote hostility, hatred or ill will among different communities, forming the basis of the sectarianism charge.

Investigators are still examining the social media publication to establish its origin, authenticity and how widely it was circulated. The charge sheet indicates that digital evidence is still being analysed as part of the ongoing investigation.

Magistrate Atim ordered that the 73-year-old former minister remain on remand while 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.

Matembe, who has since become a vocal government critic and human rights advocate, had been held incommunicado for nearly a week before she was produced in court, prompting concern among supporters and members of the public who had been searching for her.

She appeared frail during the court session and was seen limping as she entered the courtroom, requiring assistance to walk.

Prosecutors told the court that investigators are still working to determine the full context of the alleged remarks and whether they had the potential to disrupt public order.

“We are continuing with investigations into the social media publications attributed to the accused to determine their authenticity, reach, and intent,” a prosecution officer told the court.

The case was adjourned to July 1, 2026, as authorities continue gathering and reviewing digital evidence linked to the alleged social media posts.