There was tension and fear at Kanyanya Chief Magistrates Court on Tuesday after National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter Saudah Madaada suddenly collapsed and vomited blood while inside the court’s detention cells. The incident happened shortly before the court hearing for her bail application.
Madaada had appeared in court together with other NUP supporters and leaders, including Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, Eddie Mutwe, Doreen Kaija, Tasi Calvin (Bobi Giant), Achileo Kivumbi, and Olivia Lutaaya. The group had just been placed in the holding cells as they waited for the session to begin when Madaada developed a severe and unexpected health complication.
Witnesses who were nearby said Madaada suddenly collapsed and appeared extremely weak. Officers and lawyers quickly rushed to help her, and the situation caused panic among those inside and outside the courtroom. Many feared the worst as the cause of the bleeding was not immediately clear.
Frank Mwesigwa Mocks the Incident
While supporters expressed concern, some government officials reacted differently Hon. Frank Mwesigwa dismissed the whole incident as a mere trick. In a sarcastic comment shared on X (Twitter), he compared Madaada’s condition to childish pranks.
He wrote:
“We used to prank our parents when we were young with red Jolly-Jus, and they would think it was blood. Madada, at her age, is still doing the same. Lol.”
We used to prank our parents when we were young with red Jolly-Jus, and they would think it was blood. Madada, at her age is still doing the same. Lol. pic.twitter.com/CrvVWa21ry
— Hon Mwesigye Frank (@MwesigyeFranks) November 19, 2025
His remarks sparked criticism online, with many Ugandans accusing him of mocking a serious health issue and showing insensitivity toward detainees’ wellbeing.
A Pattern of Brutal Arrests of NUP Supporters
The incident comes at a time when many young people who support Bobi Wine’s political activities continue to face harsh treatment from security forces. Several times, NUP supporters have been arrested from campaign trails, rallies, and meetings.
Only a few days earlier in Mbarara, security forces some reportedly dressed in casual wear raided a NUP mobilization event. Videos and photos from the scene showed violent arrests, including a shocking moment where a female supporter was forcefully undressed during the scuffle, exposing her body. The incident sparked widespread anger and raised new questions about the excessive force used against political opponents.
Madaada and the other NUP supporters are facing several charges, including:
Unlawful drilling
Conspiracy to commit a felony
Engaging in unauthorized military-style movements and formations
According to prosecution, on February 12, 2025, the group and others still at large allegedly held a meeting at the NUP offices in Makerere-Kavule. During this meeting, the group is accused of participating in activities resembling military drills, contrary to Section 45(1)(b) of the Penal Code Act.
The NUP leadership has strongly denied these accusations, saying the charges are politically motivated and intended to intimidate the opposition ahead of electoral activities.
Growing Tension between Government and Opposition
Incidents like Madaada’s collapse and the recent arrests highlight the growing tension between the government and the opposition. Many Ugandans believe the political climate is becoming increasingly hostile, especially for young people who openly show support for Bobi Wine and the NUP.
Opposition leaders continue to call for respect of human rights, lawful treatment of detainees, and an end to what they describe as targeted persecution. They argue that the continued harassment of supporters is meant to weaken the party’s influence, especially as political mobilization grows across the country.
The events at Kanyanya Court combined with the sarcastic response from a senior police officer have once again brought national attention to the treatment of NUP supporters in Uganda. Saudah Madaada’s health scare has sparked concern, anger, and renewed debate about political freedoms, human rights, and the role of state security forces.
As the case continues, many Ugandans are watching closely and hoping that justice, fairness, and humanity will prevail.