Luzira Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday granted bail to former Ethics and Integrity Minister Dr. Miria Matembe, who is charged with promoting sectarianism.

Grade One Magistrate Sheilah Gloria Atim ruled that the 73-year-old politician had satisfied the legal requirements for temporary release pending trial.

The court ordered Matembe to execute a non-cash bond of Shs 3 million, with each of her sureties also bonded at Shs 3 million.

As part of the bail conditions, Matembe was directed to refrain from making any statements that could amount to sectarianism and to report to court whenever required until the matter is concluded.

In her ruling, Magistrate Atim emphasized that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. She noted that the offence of promoting sectarianism carries a maximum sentence of five years, which is not severe enough to warrant continued detention.

The magistrate further considered Matembe’s clean criminal record, her advanced age, status as a public figure, and reliable place of abode.

Matembe, who appeared emotional after the ruling, hugged her husband Nehemiah as supporters, including activists and National Unity Platform leaders, sang songs of praise inside the court precincts.

The veteran politician was charged after allegedly making remarks during a June 2026 interview on DK TV Uganda, in which she reportedly claimed that “all our taxes are being spent on the Banyankole women ministers.”

Prosecutors argued that the statements were likely to promote hostility or ill will against members of the Banyankole ethnic group.

Matembe denied the charge when she first appeared in court on Tuesday.

The case has been adjourned to August 19, 2026, to allow more time for investigations.

This latest development comes amid a tense political climate in the country.