TOP STORY – MBALE CITY
NUP Bugisu Regional Coordinator Released on Bond After Arrest Over Alleged Incitement
Mbale City | Saturday, September 6, 2025 — Fazali Nabende, the National Unity Platform (NUP) coordinator for the Bugisu region, has been released on police bond after spending a night in custody following his arrest on Friday.
Nabende was apprehended by police on allegations of inciting violence and participating in an illegal procession during a clash between NUP supporters and law enforcement. The incident occurred as supporters escorted Hajji Mansa Musa, the NUP mayoral aspirant for Mbale City, to the nomination offices.
Police responded to the procession with tear gas and live ammunition, claiming the group intended to disrupt business operations in the city center and organize an unauthorized public rally at Lion’s Children’s Park.
In a statement following his release from Mbale Central Police Station, Nabende denied all allegations, insisting he was arrested while driving home from town and labeled the detention as unlawful. He criticized the police’s response and urged NUP supporters to remain resilient, suggesting the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) is losing public support.
“This is just another sign that the regime is desperate,” Nabende told reporters. “But Ugandans are ready for change, and no amount of intimidation will stop it.”
The incident has reignited tensions between NUP and security forces in the region. In March this year, Samuel Nanoka, the NUP chairperson for Sironko District, claimed he was kidnapped, blindfolded, and interrogated about the party’s activities before being dumped in Mbale City.
Despite the unrest, Hajji Mansa Musa successfully submitted his nomination and was confirmed as the official NUP mayoral candidate for Mbale City.
