Author: ankhh

  • Mystery As University Graduate Is Discovered Dead In Lodging

    Mystery As University Graduate Is Discovered Dead In Lodging

    A 22-year-old woman, identified as Deborah Ememem, was found dead under a bed in a hotel room several days after she had checked in with a male companion.

    Deborah had checked into the hotel on the night of June 14, accompanied by a man believed to be her boyfriend. The two had reportedly gone there to relax after celebrating her birthday the previous day.

    When Deborah’s mother was unable to reach her and her calls went unanswered, she became worried. After several failed attempts to get in touch, she reported her daughter missing at the nearest police station.

    Investigations began immediately. Police later discovered that Deborah had entered the hotel with a man named Emmanuel Gambo, a student. The authorities confirmed that the two had booked the room together on the night she disappeared.

    According to police sources, Emmanuel was later arrested in connection with the incident. During questioning, he allegedly confessed to killing Deborah.

    He claimed that the two got into an argument after she asked him to pay UGX35000, which was more than the UGX10000 they had originally agreed upon. He said the disagreement escalated into a physical fight, during which he strangled her, claiming it was in self-defense.

    Realizing she had died, Emmanuel reportedly wrapped her body in a cloth and hid it under the bed. He then took her phone and other personal belongings before fleeing the hotel.

    A few days later, guests staying in nearby rooms began complaining about a terrible smell. Hotel staff investigated and discovered Deborah’s decomposing body hidden under the bed. Authorities were immediately called in to handle the situation.

    Police say Emmanuel had used a fake name and address when booking the room, making it harder to trace him. However, on July 2, he was located and arrested at his residence. At the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of Deborah’s iPhone, further linking him to the crime.

    The case has shocked many and raised concerns about safety and accountability in hotel establishments, particularly regarding the use of false identities during check-in.

     

    Investigations are ongoing as authorities prepare formal charges against Emmanuel. The young woman’s family is now left mourning a painful loss that followed what should have been a time of celebration.

  • Husband of NRM’s Kamuli Woman MP Aspirant Shot Dead

    Husband of NRM’s Kamuli Woman MP Aspirant Shot Dead

    Police in Kamuli District have shot and killed Sowedi Egumbye, the husband of National Resistance Movement (NRM) Kamuli District Woman MP aspirant Sarah Auma, following a late-night incident linked to political violence.

    According to police, the shooting occurred around 11:00 p.m. after a group allegedly associated with Auma’s campaign forcefully entered the home of Buzaaya County MP, Martin Muzaale.

    Busoga North police spokesperson, ASP Michael Kasadha, stated that the group arrived in a motorcade and used one of their vehicles to ram through the gate of Hon. Muzaale’s residence.

    “They used one of the cars to knock down the gate of Honourable Muzaale to gain entry,” Kasadha told Baba FM. “They injured people because they had weapons like pangas and hammers. These are some of the items we recovered from the scene.”

    Police were alerted and responded to the scene. Upon arrival, they reportedly found the group attempting to flee. During efforts to stop the vehicle, Sowedi Egumbye was shot.

    “It is unfortunate. We wouldn’t want to lose anybody because of elections, but people must follow the rules,” Kasadha said.

    Egumbye’s body was taken to Kamuli General Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

    Police have confirmed that several individuals have been arrested in connection with the incident.

    Meanwhile, reports suggest that Egumbye had been on the police’s wanted list as the suspected leader of a counterfeit money distribution network in Kamuli District, and for his alleged involvement in multiple robberies.

  • PHOTOS: Hoima Stadium Construction Enters Final Stretch As 2027 AFCON Looms

    PHOTOS: Hoima Stadium Construction Enters Final Stretch As 2027 AFCON Looms

    Construction of the Hoima City Stadium has entered a critical stage, with significant progress now visible on multiple fronts. The $129 million project, which will be a key venue for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, is moving steadily towards completion.

    On Wednesday, contractors reported that the upper car park had been paved with its first layer of asphalt. Roofing work is also advancing well, with the membrane now halfway installed and exterior cladding progressing even faster.

    Image

    All structural trusses are now in place, marking the completion of one of the stadium’s major engineering milestones. Inside the 20,000-seater facility, attention has shifted to finishing touches. Most HVAC systems are already in place, and teams are now working on ceilings, painting, electrical installations, and other interior details.

    Landscaping has also begun, with flower planting and greening underway, ushering in the aesthetic phase of the project.

    Contractors expect to complete the main stadium structure by the end of July. Focus will then shift to the surrounding sports complex, which is scheduled for handover to the government by December 2025, well ahead of the initial timeline.

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    Seen as a cornerstone of Uganda’s preparations to co-host the 2027 AFCON, Hoima City Stadium is being celebrated by leaders and residents alike as a transformative investment in the region’s sporting infrastructure and economic growth.

     

  • 5 Things That Happen When You Call on the Name of Jesus at Midnight

    5 Things That Happen When You Call on the Name of Jesus at Midnight

    There’s something sacred about midnight. It’s when the world is quiet, the distractions fade, and everything slows down—except your thoughts. Midnight is when the silence can feel deafening and your problems feel larger than life. It’s the hour of wrestling, wondering, and sometimes weeping.

    But it’s also the hour of breakthrough.

    In Scripture and in life, midnight represents transition—the end of one day and the start of another. It’s a liminal space, a spiritual threshold. And when we choose to call on the name of Jesus at midnight, powerful things begin to happen.

    You may be facing a personal midnight right now—a dark season, a painful chapter, a moment of fear or uncertainty. Maybe your midnight looks like depression, grief, sickness, heartbreak, or anxiety. If so, take heart. Because midnight isn’t the end—it’s the setup for something new.

    Let’s explore what happens when you call on the name of Jesus at midnight and why it may be the most powerful time to pray.

    Midnight in the Bible: Where Breakthrough Begins

    The Bible is filled with moments that happened at midnight—and they weren’t accidents. God often moves in the darkest hour to remind us that light is coming.

    Take Acts 16, for example. Paul and Silas were beaten and thrown into prison for preaching the gospel. With their feet in stocks and wounds on their backs, they had every reason to be bitter. But what did they do?

    “About midnight, Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly, there was a violent earthquake…” (Acts 16:25–26)

    At midnight, they called on the name of Jesus. They worshiped when it didn’t make sense. And what followed was a divine jailbreak—their chains fell off, the prison doors flew open, and their testimony brought a jailer and his family to salvation.

    There’s something spiritually significant about midnight prayers. When we choose to lift our voices in the darkest hour, we declare that God—not our circumstances—has the final word.

    What Does It Mean to Call on the Name of Jesus?

    To call on the name of Jesus is to acknowledge His authority, power, and presence in your situation. It’s not just a phrase—it’s a declaration of dependence and trust.

    Romans 10:13 says, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”

    In Greek, the word for “call” implies an urgent cry. It’s what you do when you’re desperate. When you’ve exhausted all your resources. When you realize that nothing and no one else can fix what’s broken.

    Calling on Jesus isn’t weak—it’s wise. It positions your heart to receive divine help. And in the spiritual realm, it activates heaven’s response.

    At midnight, when fear whispers and doubt creeps in, calling on Jesus is how we push back the darkness. It’s how we say, “This isn’t over. My God is still with me.”

    5 Things That Happen When You Call on the Name of Jesus at Midnight

    1. Chains Begin to Break

    When you call on the name of Jesus at midnight, bondage is broken.

    Whether it’s addiction, fear, anxiety, depression, or unforgiveness, Jesus has the power to break every chain.

    Philippians 2:9-10 says: “God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow…”

    That includes the name of cancer. The name of trauma. The name of shame.

    When you cry out the name of Jesus, you’re invoking authority over everything that has tried to imprison you. And like Paul and Silas, your chains can fall off—even when you’re still in the middle of the night.

    2. Peace Begins to Fill Your Soul

    There’s a supernatural peace that comes when you speak the name of Jesus. It’s not the peace the world gives. It’s not circumstantial. It’s not temporary. It’s deep, lasting, and unshakable.

    In John 14:27, Jesus said: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”

    At midnight, when anxiety threatens to steal your rest, calling on Jesus invites His peace to take over.

    You may not feel better instantly. The storm may not disappear right away. But something shifts internally. Your breathing slows. Your perspective clears. And you remember: You are not alone.

    3. Heaven Responds to Earth’s Cry

    Heaven listens when you call. Your midnight prayer is not a whisper into a void—it’s a petition that reaches the throne of grace.

    Psalm 18:6 says: “In my distress I called to the Lord… He heard my voice; my cry came before Him, into His ears.”

    You may feel forgotten. Overlooked. Too broken. Too tired. But God hears every cry.

    When Paul and Silas prayed at midnight, there was a sudden moment. Earthquake. Breakthrough. Salvation.

    Sometimes the response is immediate. Sometimes it’s delayed. But always—it’s heard. When you call on the name of Jesus, heaven leans in.

    4. Demons Begin to Flee

    The name of Jesus carries authority over darkness. Demons don’t tremble at motivational quotes or positive thinking—they tremble at the name of Jesus.

    James 2:19 says: “Even the demons believe—and shudder.”

    When you call on Jesus at midnight, you declare war against the enemy’s plans. Fear loses its grip. Lies are silenced. Oppression lifts.

    Your midnight prayer isn’t just personal—it’s powerful. You are engaging in spiritual warfare with the greatest weapon available: the name of Jesus Christ.

    5. Hope Begins to Rise

    Midnight often feels like the end. But when you call on the name of Jesus, you realize—it’s just the beginning.

    Psalm 30:5 says: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.”

    Your situation may not change overnight. But when you pray, something changes in you. Faith rises. Hope returns. The enemy loses his hold on your future.

    The name of Jesus is the doorway to new beginnings. Healing. Restoration. Redemption. And when you call on Him at your lowest, you set the stage for your greatest comeback.

    Don’t Wait for Morning—Pray Now

    You don’t have to wait until things get better. Until the sun rises. Until the pain lessens. Until the fear passes.

    Call on the name of Jesus now. Right where you are. In your pajamas. On your floor. With tears in your eyes and questions in your heart.

    He doesn’t need polished prayers. He just wants your heart.

    At midnight, you are seen. You are heard. You are loved.

    And when you call on Jesus, He shows up.

    Final Thoughts: When Midnight Comes, Call on the Name of Jesus

    Midnight is not just a time on the clock—it’s a metaphor for the hardest seasons of life. And it’s in those seasons that the power of Jesus becomes most evident.

    You don’t have to stay silent in the dark. You don’t have to be strong on your own. You don’t have to wait until morning.

    Call on the name of Jesus.

    Chains will break. Peace will come. Heaven will move. And hope will rise.

    Because even in your darkest hour, the Light of the World is just a whisper away.

    Feeling overwhelmed in your midnight hour? Discover what happens when you call on the name of Jesus at midnight—how chains break, peace comes, and breakthrough begins.

  • “I Have Never Seen A Person As Poor As Hon Betty Nambooze Before Entering Parliament, Even The Poor Used To Laugh At Her” Says Frank Gashumba

    “I Have Never Seen A Person As Poor As Hon Betty Nambooze Before Entering Parliament, Even The Poor Used To Laugh At Her” Says Frank Gashumba

    Controversial political commentator Frank Gashumba has stirred yet another storm with scathing remarks about Members of Parliament, accusing them of using public office as a shortcut out of poverty rather than a platform to serve the nation.

    Speaking on the Entugga programme on Radio 4, Gashumba launched into a blistering critique, claiming that many Ugandan politicians enter Parliament financially unstable, only to rapidly enrich themselves once in office.

    “The moment most of them step into Parliament, their lives change overnight,” Gashumba said. “They abandon the people who voted for them and focus entirely on personal gain.”

    He singled out Mukono Municipality MP Hon. Betty Nambooze in a particularly pointed attack, calling her a textbook example of this trend. In comments that shocked many listeners, he claimed, “Before joining Parliament, I had never seen anyone as poor as Betty Nambooze. Even the poor laughed at her.”

    Gashumba went further, alleging that Nambooze had been previously involved in a corruption scandal, which he linked to what he described as her “desperate background.” According to him, the desire to escape poverty made her vulnerable to unethical decisions.

    “Today, she moves with pride as if she’s never tasted poverty,” he added, suggesting that her current confidence is rooted in wealth acquired through questionable means.

    He concluded his tirade with a broader condemnation of Uganda’s political class, asserting that the majority of MPs are motivated not by patriotism but by a thirst for money, status, and influence.

    The remarks have sparked widespread reaction online. Some praised Gashumba for speaking what they see as uncomfortable truths, while others condemned his comments as unnecessarily personal and disrespectful, especially toward a sitting female legislator.

    As of now, Hon. Betty Nambooze has not issued any public response to the allegations.

    Source: Kampala Eye

  • Former Rakai District Boss Sentenced For 5yrs Over Multimillion Bribery Scandal

    Former Rakai District Boss Sentenced For 5yrs Over Multimillion Bribery Scandal

    In a resounding warning to corrupt public officials across Uganda, the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court has today sentenced the former Chairperson of the Rakai District Service Commission, David Mpuga, to five years in prison or a UGX 7.2 million fine after he was found guilty of soliciting bribes from job seekers.

    Mpuga, a key figure in the district’s human resource machinery, was convicted for demanding UGX 20 million from a candidate applying for the position of Agricultural Officer. The former chairperson allegedly promised the job in exchange for the hefty sum — a practice that has become alarmingly rampant in local government recruitment circles.

    In a plea bargain agreement, Mpuga agreed to compensate the victim with UGX 30 million and was also barred from holding any government position for the next 10 years. This marks one of the most high-profile convictions involving the abuse of district recruitment powers for personal enrichment.

    Nationwide Crackdown Underway

    The sentencing comes amid a broader anti-graft operation spearheaded by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit targeting the sale of public jobs by District Service Commissions (DSCs) across the country.

    Recent arrests have already been made in Mpigi and Gomba, and investigators have confirmed that operations are being scaled up to cover more districts in a bid to dismantle what is now seen as a network of local government corruption.

    A senior official from the Anti-Corruption Unit, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:

    “This is just the beginning. We have credible evidence of a cartel operating in several districts where job seekers are extorted for bribes ranging from UGX 5 million to UGX 50 million, depending on the position.”

    A Warning Shot To Public Officials

    The conviction of Mpuga is being hailed as a milestone in Uganda’s war against corruption, especially in the public sector recruitment process which has long been criticized for favoritism, bribery, and nepotism.

    Civil society groups and anti-corruption watchdogs have welcomed the ruling, calling it a “step in the right direction” toward restoring integrity in public service.

    Local residents in Rakai expressed mixed reactions, with some calling for the recovery of more stolen funds and prosecution of other commission members suspected of being involved in similar scams.

    “Mpuga is not the only one — there are others who have turned government jobs into a private business,” said a teacher in Rakai who preferred anonymity. “We want thorough investigations and more arrests.”

    With the State House Anti-Corruption Unit intensifying investigations, Ugandans are likely to witness more arrests and prosecutions in the coming weeks as the government sends a clear message that “public offices are not for sale.”

    For now, the conviction of David Mpuga stands as a cautionary tale — that no official is above the law, and the days of buying and selling public service jobs may be numbered.

  • Fraudsters Take Off With Ugx500m Cattle Compensation For Northern War Victims

    Fraudsters Take Off With Ugx500m Cattle Compensation For Northern War Victims

    Authorities have arraigned three individuals before the Otuke Magistrates Court in connection with a large-scale fraud involving the government’s cattle compensation program in Otuke District.

    The suspects — Obua Denith, Okeng Joel, and Ayo Jonan — were jointly charged with theft and unlawful possession of National Identity Cards belonging to other individuals. The case was presented by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), in collaboration with the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID).

    According to the prosecution, the accused conspired with others still at large to exploit vulnerable residents — particularly elderly claimants — during the registration and bank account opening process for cattle compensation. The program was set up to compensate individuals whose cattle were lost during insurgencies in northern Uganda.

    Investigators allege that the trio unlawfully obtained bank account details and national IDs of victims, which they then used to gain access to government compensation funds. In many cases, the victims were reportedly denied access to their own account information, effectively locking them out while the fraudsters withdrew large sums of money on their behalf.

    Initial estimates suggest the suspects siphoned over UGX 500 million from the affected accounts. The stolen funds were meant to compensate residents for livestock lost during past conflicts.

    The court has remanded the three accused until July 22, 2025, as investigations continue to track down other individuals believed to be involved in the scheme.

    Authorities have urged members of the public, especially compensation beneficiaries, to remain vigilant and report any irregularities in the claims or banking processes.

  • Eight Reasons Why Men Cheat in Marriages

    Eight Reasons Why Men Cheat in Marriages

    Infidelity is one of the most painful experiences a couple can go through, especially in marriage where trust and commitment are sacred. While every situation is different, understanding why some men cheat can help both partners address deeper issues and begin the healing process. Cheating doesn’t always mean a man doesn’t love his wife—it often reflects unmet needs, personal struggles, or poor communication. Here are eight human-centered reasons why men cheat in marriages:

    1. Emotional Disconnection

    Many men cheat when they feel emotionally distant from their partners. If a man feels ignored, unloved, or unappreciated at home, he may seek validation or emotional intimacy elsewhere.

    2. Lack of Physical Intimacy

    Physical connection is important in marriage. If the spark fades or affection becomes rare, some men begin to feel rejected and start looking for that physical comfort outside the relationship.

    3. Desire for Variety or Excitement

    Some men are driven by curiosity or boredom. The routine of marriage can make them crave something new or adventurous, even if it’s temporary and shallow.

    4. Low Self-Esteem or Insecurity

    Believe it or not, some men cheat not because they feel powerful—but because they feel weak. Getting attention from someone else boosts their ego and temporarily makes them feel desirable.

    5. Opportunity and Temptation

    Easy access and lack of accountability can lead men to make poor choices. Being in the wrong place, with the wrong people, at the wrong time can lead to impulsive decisions.

    6. Unresolved Personal or Childhood Issues

    Some men carry emotional baggage—such as abandonment, trauma, or trust issues—that lead them to sabotage their own relationships without realizing it.

    7. Poor Communication

    When couples stop talking honestly, misunderstandings grow. Instead of expressing dissatisfaction or working on the marriage, some men take the easier—but more destructive—path of cheating.

    8. Influence from Peers or Society

    Sometimes, societal pressure or toxic male friendships normalize cheating. A man may be influenced by friends who see infidelity as a sign of masculinity or success.

    Cheating is never justified, but understanding the root causes can be the first step toward healing. Honest conversations, counseling, and mutual effort can rebuild what’s broken—if both partners are willing.

  • Who Will Win? Museveni, Bobi Wine, and 5 Others Battle for Power in Uganda’s 2026 Election Showdown

    Who Will Win? Museveni, Bobi Wine, and 5 Others Battle for Power in Uganda’s 2026 Election Showdown

    From January 12 to February 9, 2026, Ugandans will head to the polls to elect leaders across various levels, including Presidential, Parliamentary, and Local Government Councils (City/District, Municipality/City Division, and Sub-County/Town/Municipal Division), in accordance with Article 61(2) of the Constitution.

    According to a July 2024 press release from the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, the nomination of presidential candidates will take place from October 2 to 3, 2025. Parliamentary candidates will be nominated from September 16 to 17, 2025.

    Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama

    Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama

    Key deadlines include:

    • August 1, 2025: Submission of academic credentials for presidential aspirants.

    • June 13, 2025: Resignation of public servants intending to run for parliamentary seats.

    • October 1, 2025: Resignation of public servants intending to contest for the presidency.

    As of now, five candidates have expressed their interest in the presidential race.

    George William Magera

    George William Magera, running for the first time, is the President of the People’s Progressive Party-Uganda.

    A graduate of Uganda Christian University with a Bachelor of Logistics Management (2018), Magera is currently pursuing a Master of International Policy and Practice with a concentration in Security.

    Magera has served as the president of the Progressive Party since 2018 and co-founded an NGO in 2010 that focuses on addressing health, poverty, and education challenges in Uganda.

    George William Magera

    Apostle Henry Byamukama

    Apostle Henry Byamukama previously intended to run in the 2021 elections but was unsuccessful. He is the founder of several initiatives, including Faith Life Ministries, which spearheaded a donation drive to assist communities affected by the Kiteezi landfill collapse.

    Byamukama also serves as President of Encounter Jesus Worldwide Ministries, Secretary-General of the Labour Party (Uganda’s oldest political party), and CEO of Breakthrough Media (BTM TV). He is married to Lillian Mirembe Byamukama, and the couple has two children.

    Henry Byamukama

    Henry Byamukama

    Muhammad Nsereko

    Muhammad Nsereko, an independent Member of Parliament and lawyer, has represented Kampala Central Division since 2011.

    Born on August 25, 1981, Nsereko attended Buganda Road Primary School, Kibuli Secondary School, and Kawempe Muslim Secondary School.

    He earned a Diploma in Journalism from the Indian Institute of Business and Management Studies in 2005 and a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University in 2006. He also holds a Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre (2007).

    Nsereko has been a partner at Nsereko, Mukalazi, and Company Advocates since 2007 and previously chaired the Kampala Central Land Committee (2006–2010).

    UPDATED: Profiles of 7 candidates who have shown interest in 2026 presidential elections

    Bobi Wine

    Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, was born on February 12, 1982, at Nkozi Hospital, Uganda.

    He entered politics in April 2017, winning the Kyadondo County East by-election through a grassroots campaign.

    On July 24, 2019, Bobi Wine announced his intention to run for president in the 2021 general elections, where his candidacy resonated with many Ugandans. Read more about Bobi Wine here.

    Yoweri Museveni

    Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa, born on September 15, 1944, has been the President of Uganda since 1986.

    UPDATED: Profiles of 7 candidates who have shown interest in 2026 presidential elections

    Museveni has dominated Uganda’s political landscape for decades, and his leadership remains a significant topic of discussion as the nation heads towards the 2026 elections.

    Noah Denis Mubiru

    Noah Denis Mubiru is a 57-year-old Musoga born and raised in Mayuge District. He is an author and businessman.

    Noah Denis Mubiru

    Noah Denis Mubiru

    He holds several qualifications. He has a Diploma in Secondary Education from Jambo Institute of Education (now Jambo University).

    He also holds a Diploma in Human Resource Management and another in Business Entrepreneurship and Management from Harrison College in Ireland.

    He is a graduate of Makerere University with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences, where he majored in Economics and Social Administration.

    Joseph Kabuleta

    Joseph Kizza Kabuleta (born March 17, 1972) is a Ugandan journalist, sports analyst, pastor, and politician who contested for the office of the president of Uganda in the January 14, 2021 presidential poll as an independent candidate.

    Kabuleta was born in Nairobi, Kenya, to Margaret and John Kabuleta as the ninth of 12 children.

    His father is of the Munyoro tribe from Hoima, Uganda, and his mother is a Kenyan belonging to the Kikuyu tribe.

    Kabuleta was raised in Rubaga, Kampala, before his family moved to his father’s hometown of Hoima, Uganda.

    Joseph Kabuleta

    Joseph Kabuleta

    He attended Namilyango Junior School and Namilyango College for his O and A-Level certificates.

    He enrolled for a diploma in Civil Engineering at Mbale Technical College. After graduating from the diploma programme, he joined The Crusader newspaper as a sports writer in 1997, rising to the position of sports editor in 1998.

    As he progressed in his journalism career, he enrolled at Makerere University, where he obtained a degree in Mass Communication.

    Following the closure of The Crusader, he joined The New Vision as a reporter and later became a columnist.

  • No More Apologies! Court Says Men Can Now Legally Marry Multiple Women in Uganda

    No More Apologies! Court Says Men Can Now Legally Marry Multiple Women in Uganda

    In a ruling that has stirred nationwide discussion on marriage, culture, and human rights, Uganda’s Constitutional Court has upheld the legality of polygamy, declaring it a matter of personal choice and constitutional freedom, so long as all parties involved consent.

    The unanimous ruling, delivered on July 10, 2025, comes in response to a high-profile petition filed by the Women’s Probono Initiative, a women’s rights organisation, which sought to outlaw the practice because it perpetuates inequality, emotional distress, and potential violence against women and children.

    But in a powerful lead judgment, Justice Margaret Tibulya held that consenting adults who willingly enter polygamous unions cannot later disavow the terms they agreed to.

    “Spouses who contract polygamous marriages are presumed to be aware of responsibilities and expectations,” she wrote. “Consenting adults cannot be heard complaining about terms and conditions they agree to abide by.”

    Justice Tibulya emphasized that polygamy is deeply rooted in certain cultural and religious traditions, and that enforcing monogamy across the board would violate citizens’ freedom of choice and undermine human rights.

    “Coercing citizens into practicing monogamy would be antithetical to the very idea of human rights,” she added. “The government is not under any duty to force people into enjoying rights they have not voluntarily chosen.”

    Petitioner’s Arguments Rejected

    The Women’s Probono Initiative had argued that polygamy leads to competition for attention and resources, emotional strain, and unequal burdens on women. They also asserted that polygamous arrangements deny women the legal protections enjoyed in monogamous marriages, especially regarding property rights, spousal support, and decision-making.

    However, the justices rejected this view, maintaining that the diversity of Uganda’s cultural and religious landscape necessitates legal tolerance for different forms of marital unions.

    Justice Oscar John Kihika criticized the assumption that society should conform to a single norm:

    “The petitioner makes the fundamental mistake of assuming that society is homogeneous. Article 37 of our Constitution guarantees the right of choice in matters of culture, creed, and religion.”

    The Women’s Probono Initiative reacted strongly to the ruling, calling it a betrayal of gender equality and a rollback on women’s rights in Uganda.

    “This decision legitimizes deeply entrenched discrimination against women. It reinforces harmful practices that have no place in a modern society committed to equality,” the organisation said in a post-ruling statement.

    They warned that the ruling sends a dangerous message and undermines Uganda’s international commitments to uphold women’s rights.

    “Polygamy, by its very structure, places women in subordinate positions with fewer legal protections. This ruling leaves women in polygamous unions more vulnerable and pushes us further from achieving gender justice.”

    A Precedent With Lasting Implications

    With Justices Irene Mulyagonja, Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, and Dr Asa Mugenyi concurring, the judgment now forms a major legal precedent on marriage law in Uganda. It affirms that while polygamy remains lawful under customary and religious law, it must be practiced with mutual consent—and within the limits of the broader legal framework.

    The ruling is likely to shape public discourse and future legislative proposals, as Uganda continues to grapple with balancing tradition, modernity, and the evolving global norms of gender equality.

    Legal Clarification On Bigamy

    The court, however, drew a clear line on bigamy. Justices ruled that a man who is already in a monogamous marriage under civil law cannot introduce a second wife without committing a criminal offence.

    “Turning a monogamous marriage into a polygamous one without consent is criminal,” the court warned.