The International Crimes Division of the High Court in Uganda has granted bail to 36 former members of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), who are facing terrorism charges.
Each member, comprising 33 men and three women, was granted sh2 million cash bail after being extradited from Kisumu, Kenya, where they were arrested on July 23, 2024, for allegedly receiving or providing terrorism training.
The ruling by Lady Justice Susan Okalany followed a heated bail application process, with the prosecution arguing against the applicants’ release due to the seriousness of the charges and concerns regarding the sureties.
Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka emphasized the need for stringent conditions, citing ongoing investigations.
Despite the objections, the court ruled in favor of the applicants, allowing bail under strict conditions.
Each individual must report to the Deputy Registrar monthly for six months, surrender their passports, and are restricted from traveling outside the country without permission. Justice Okalany warned that failure to commit the accused to trial within six months would lead to their automatic release.
The group was allegedly in Kisumu for a leadership training seminar scheduled prior to the FDC’s Delegates Conference later in August. Eyewitness reports claim they were arrested at gunpoint by masked men and subsequently extradited to Uganda following negotiations between Kenyan and Ugandan authorities. Their lawyers continue to stress the importance of a fair judicial process in these proceedings.
