KAMPALA, November 5, 2026 — Susan Kushaba’s application for bail will return to court on November 17 after the former Owino Market leader denied three criminal charges linked to statements allegedly made on TikTok.
Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court remanded Kushaba to Luzira Prison on Thursday, allowing prosecutors time to verify documents submitted in support of her release.
The charges concern alleged communications about Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda, State Minister Kabuye Kyofatogabye and a third individual. Kushaba pleaded not guilty to each count. www.monitor.co.ug
Defence Challenges Delay in Bail Hearing
The question of Kushaba’s release prompted disagreement between her lawyers and the prosecution.
Her defence team, led by Robert Bautu, asked the court to grant bail after presenting proposed sureties. Prosecutors requested more time to check the documents and prepare their response to the application.
Bautu objected, arguing that the relevant paperwork had already been uploaded to the court’s electronic case management system. He maintained that the information supplied would allow prosecutors to contact the officials who issued the supporting documents.
The defence sought interim release while those checks continued. The court declined that request and gave the prosecution an opportunity to complete verification before the November 17 hearing. nilepost.co.ug
Prosecutors Cite Statements Made Between January and October
Kushaba faces three counts of sending false distress signals under Section 82 of the Uganda Communications Act.
According to the prosecution, the case arises from statements made between January and October 2026 through appearances on a TikTok account known as The Investigator.
The first count concerns allegations she reportedly made against Kabanda involving fraud and land grabbing.
The second relates to statements accusing Kyofatogabye of embezzling money collected from boda boda riders and taxi operators. The third concerns allegations involving Muzamiru Katumba Mirundi and land belonging to Kamwokya KCCA Primary School.
These descriptions form part of the prosecution’s case. They do not establish that the individuals named committed the wrongdoing alleged in the communications, or that Kushaba committed the offences charged. She has denied all three counts. nilepost.co.ug
Market Leadership and Parliamentary Ambitions
Kushaba is known for her previous leadership role at St Balikuddembe Market, popularly called Owino Market.
Her disputes with Kabanda developed during disagreements over the market’s management. Their political rivalry subsequently extended to the Kampala Central parliamentary contest.
In the January 2026 election, Kabanda secured the seat on the National Resistance Movement ticket. Kushaba, who also contested, remained active in political discussions after losing the race.
Her criticism of Kampala officials has continued to draw public attention. The current proceedings, however, concern specific alleged communications rather than a general assessment of her political views or her rivalry with government leaders.
What the Remand Order Means for the Case
Thursday’s order leaves Kushaba in custody while her application for release remains pending. It is not a conviction or a sentence following a finding of guilt.
The November 17 hearing is expected to focus on bail, including the prosecution’s response to the documents submitted by the defence. That process is separate from determining whether the criminal charges have been proved.
Kushaba’s not-guilty pleas remain on record as she awaits her next appearance at Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court.
