KAMPALA, November 5, 2026 — Susan Kushaba has been remanded to Luzira Prison after denying three charges arising from statements she allegedly made on TikTok about Kampala officials and another individual.
The former Owino Market leader appeared before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. Her application for bail was deferred to November 17, 2026, after prosecutors requested time to verify documents supplied by her proposed sureties. www.monitor.co.ug
Kushaba’s detention follows her entry of not-guilty pleas. The court has not convicted her of any offence.
Court Defers Release as Prosecutors Seek Verification
Kushaba’s lawyers asked for her release while the case proceeds, but the prosecution said it needed additional time to examine the supporting paperwork.
Defence lawyer Robert Bautu opposed the request for an adjournment. He argued that the documents had already been uploaded to the court’s electronic case management system and contained contact information that could help prosecutors confirm their authenticity.
The defence also sought interim release while verification continued.
The court declined that request and allowed the prosecution an opportunity to review the documents before responding to the bail application. Kushaba was then remanded to Luzira until the next hearing. nilepost.co.ug
What Prosecutors Allege
Kushaba faces three counts of sending false distress signals under Section 82 of the Uganda Communications Act.
The prosecution says the disputed communications occurred between January and October 2026 through appearances on a TikTok account known as The Investigator.
One count concerns statements allegedly accusing Kampala Minister Minsa Kabanda of fraud and land grabbing. Another involves allegations against State Minister Kabuye Kyofatogabye concerning money collected from boda boda riders and taxi operators.
The third relates to statements about Muzamiru Katumba Mirundi and the alleged taking of land belonging to Kamwokya KCCA Primary School.
Kushaba denied all three charges. These accounts describe the prosecution’s allegations; they do not establish wrongdoing by Kushaba or by the individuals mentioned in the disputed statements. nilepost.co.ug
Public Disputes Followed Market Leadership Role
Kushaba’s involvement in public affairs includes her former leadership position at St Balikuddembe Market, commonly known as Owino Market.
Disputes surrounding the market’s administration contributed to tensions with Kabanda. Their rivalry later extended into the January 2026 parliamentary election, when both contested the Kampala Central seat.
Kabanda won on the National Resistance Movement ticket. Kushaba remained involved in political commentary after her unsuccessful campaign.
Those disagreements provide context for the public attention surrounding the case. They do not determine whether the prosecution can prove the specific offences before the court.
November 17 Hearing Will Address Bail
The next scheduled proceedings will concern Kushaba’s request to leave custody while the criminal case continues.
The prosecution is expected to respond after examining the documents submitted in support of her application. The court will then consider the arguments presented concerning release.
A remand order is not a prison sentence following conviction. Kushaba’s not-guilty pleas remain on record, and the charges have yet to be determined.
Until the next hearing, Kushaba remains remanded to Luzira Prison, with her bail application scheduled to return before Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court on November 17.
