Ugandan TikToker Madubarah to Spend Christmas in Jail Over Hate Speech Against Museveni, Anita Among

Summary:

• TikToker and shoe hawker Juma Musuuza, alias Madubarah, has been remanded to Kigo Prison until January 10, 2025. He faces charges of hate speech and spreading false information targeting President Museveni, his son Muhoozi, and Speaker Anita Among through TikTok videos.

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A 27-year-old shoe hawker and TikTok personality, Juma Musuuza, also known as Madubarah, will spend the festive season in Kigo Prison after being further remanded by Entebbe Senior Magistrate Grade One, Edgar Tibayeita Tusiime. Musuuza, who has been on remand for several weeks, will appear in court again on January 10, 2025, for continued hearings and a bail application.

Musuuza faces charges of hate speech and spreading false information targeting the first family and Parliament Speaker, Anita Among. The court proceedings were delayed after the trial magistrate, Stella Maris Amabilis, was unable to hear the case following Musuuza’s bail request a week ago.

According to the prosecution, in October 2024, Musuuza used his TikTok account, Madubarah UG, to post content that allegedly ridiculed and demeaned President Museveni and Speaker Among. One video allegedly featured him stating that if Museveni handed over power to his son, Muhoozi, the country would face disaster. In another video, Musuuza reportedly made threats about Muhoozi, claiming the country would be destroyed due to his drinking habits, and suggested anyone who opposed him would face arrest or worse.

Musuuza also criticized Anita Among, accusing her of using taxpayer money to build a mansion better than State House and purchase dubious cosmetic products. These videos form the basis of the charges against him.