Law
Court Grants Bail to Bobi Wine Associate Noah Mitala Amid Abduction Allegations and Political Tensions
The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday granted bail to Noah Mitala, a close associate of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, following several weeks of detention that sparked national and international concern.
Presiding Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi released Mitala on a cash bail of Shs 5 million, with each of his sureties bonded at Shs 50 million non-cash. As part of the bail conditions, Mitala is prohibited from leaving the country without prior authorisation from the court.
His court appearance was marked by heightened security around the court premises, reflecting the sensitive nature of the case. Mitala’s release follows public outcry over his alleged abduction on May 15 from his home in Gombe by unidentified operatives. The National Unity Platform (NUP) — Uganda’s leading opposition party — has accused state security agencies of orchestrating what it called a politically motivated abduction.
“This was a tactic of fear, meant to silence those who speak truth to power,” said Bobi Wine in a statement after the court ruling. “What happened to Mitala is a gross violation of constitutional rights and an attack on all Ugandans who believe in freedom.”
The Uganda Human Rights Commission, along with several civil society organisations, has raised alarm over the growing pattern of enforced disappearances and the use of state force against political activists. Rights groups warn that such incidents represent a dangerous erosion of civil liberties.
So far, the state has not publicly disclosed any formal charges or presented evidence against Mitala. The court has scheduled the next hearing for later this year, leaving many questions unanswered about the legal basis for his arrest and detention.
Human rights defenders and political analysts have expressed concern that Mitala’s case may signal an intensifying crackdown on government critics ahead of the 2026 general elections. “This is not an isolated incident,” said Sarah Nakimera, a legal analyst with the Centre for Constitutional Governance. “We’re seeing a trend where abductions, illegal detentions, and intimidation are being used to stifle dissent.”
As the political climate heats up, observers are calling on authorities to ensure due process and uphold the rule of law. Many warn that the continued targeting of opposition figures may deepen public mistrust of Uganda’s justice system and democratic institutions.
Mitala, who appeared composed in court, was escorted out by his legal team and family members after the ruling. His next court appearance is expected to shed more light on the state’s case — if any — against him.
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