Police have arrested 20 suspected National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters following a violent incident at the burial of former Busiro South MP Charles Matovu in Wakiso District.
The suspects are accused of attacking Kibuku County MP Herbert Kinobere and other mourners during Sunday’s burial ceremony, October 25, 2026, at Kungu-Lutale along Nakawuka Road.
According to police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, the suspects allegedly targeted mourners they believed were supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), disrupting a ceremony meant to honour the late legislator.
Kinobere’s vehicle reportedly had its tyres deflated, while several mourners were pelted with stones during the incident.
Rusoke confirmed that the 20 suspects had been arrested and detained pending prosecution. He said they would be taken to court and dealt with in accordance with the law.
The police spokesperson condemned the violence, urging Ugandans to respect mourners regardless of their political affiliations. He also warned against acts of intimidation and the destruction of property, particularly during sensitive public gatherings such as funerals.
Matovu, 41, died on October 22, 2026, at Mulago National Referral Hospital following a sudden illness. He represented Busiro South in the 11th Parliament from 2021 to 2026 on the NUP ticket.
He lost his re-election bid in January 2026 to NRM candidate Kenan Opio but later challenged the results in the High Court in Entebbe, citing alleged electoral irregularities. The election petition was still pending at the time of his death.
The violence at his burial has cast a shadow over the farewell to the former legislator, with police now moving to hold those allegedly responsible to account.
Highlights
- 20 suspects arrested: Police have detained suspected NUP activists over the alleged violence at Charles Matovu’s burial.
- MP allegedly targeted: Kibuku County MP Herbert Kinobere was among those reportedly attacked.
- Vehicle damaged: Kinobere’s vehicle reportedly had its tyres deflated, while stones were thrown at mourners.
- Police issue warning: Spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke condemned the violence and called for respect across political divides.
- Matovu’s election petition: The former MP died while his challenge to the January 2026 election results was still before the High Court.
Key Takeaways
- The 20 suspects remain accused persons; their arrest does not establish guilt.
- Police say the suspects will face court proceedings in accordance with the law.
- Authorities have urged Ugandans to keep political differences from disrupting funerals and other public gatherings.
- Matovu’s burial has become the subject of a police investigation following the reported clashes between mourners.
