A Ugandan court has released on bail nine supporters of incumbent Adjumani District Chairperson and National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer aspirant Ben Anyama, who are facing charges related to electoral violence.
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The Grade One Magistrate’s Court in Adjumani on Monday heard that the accused—Eruaga Jovan, Andruga Emmanuel, Akule George, Vuziga Joel, Vundru Swaib, Ndreara Abraham, Anyovi Patrick, Anyanzo Ivan, and Oroma Isaac—allegedly attacked supporters of rival candidate John Anyanzo, damaging property and injuring three individuals during a campaign incident on 20 July 2025 in Molukpwoda Village, Adjumani Town Council.
According to the prosecution, the group is charged with one count of malicious damage to property—specifically damaging a vehicle windshield and campaign posters—and three counts of assault causing bodily harm. The alleged victims of the assault were named as Draga Kodili, Aluma Swaleh, and Gadafi Adrawa. All nine accused pleaded not guilty.
While State Attorney Simon Angumale confirmed that investigations had concluded, he requested more time to prepare the case due to limited contact with the complainants.
In response, defence lawyer Brenda applied for bail under constitutional provisions that guarantee the presumption of innocence and the right to bail. Magistrate Michael Okot granted the request, citing the credibility of the sureties, many of whom are close family members. Each of the accused was granted a non-cash bail of UGX 1 million, while each surety was bonded at UGX 1.5 million. The trial was adjourned to 15 August 2025.
Speaking to journalists outside court, Mr Anyama urged his supporters to refrain from violence during the tense political season.
“I condemn all forms of electoral violence. Let’s not allow political competition to divide or destabilize our communities,” he said.
The NRM primaries for the Adjumani District LC5 chairperson seat are set for 24 July 2025, with three candidates in the race: the incumbent Ben Anyama, former district speaker and vice chairperson John Anyanzo, and one other unnamed contender.
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