More than 100 individuals detained by police for their alleged role in violent demonstrations opposing the recently declared presidential election results appeared in court on Tuesday in Masaka City.

The suspects, apprehended from different areas across Masaka, were brought before Chief Magistrate Abdallah Kayiza at Masaka Chief Magistrate’s Court. They faced multiple counts, including unlawful assembly, obstructing roadways, setting tyres ablaze, vandalizing public property, and violating the rights of fellow citizens.

The alleged incidents took place on January 17, 2026, shortly after the Electoral Commission announced the election outcome from the January 15 polls.

Due to the high number of accused, they were presented in batches before the magistrate.

All suspects entered not-guilty pleas, with several claiming they were picked up innocently—some while heading home from work, others directly from their residences.

The court did not take full pleas immediately; instead, charges were formally read out first.

Bail applications were scheduled on staggered dates: certain groups are to return on January 23, 2026; others on January 26, 2026; and the remaining on February 13, 2026, for bail decisions.

Any minors among those arrested were released and placed back in the care of their parents.

Defence counsel Pius Kabiswa Kiryowa praised the magistrate’s measured approach during proceedings and urged swift consideration of bail, highlighting health issues affecting some of the accused.

Masaka Regional Police spokesperson Twaha Kasirye confirmed that the arrests were conducted lawfully and that the suspects were duly presented to face the charges in court.

Kiziba Ward LC Chairperson Richard Ssekittoleeko called on local residents to remain peaceful and let the judicial process unfold without interference.

Court sessions are set to continue on the designated dates for bail hearings and further proceedings.