The Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court has denied bail to 25-year-old Kenneth Niwamanya, who faces charges of forging the signature of Uganda’s First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataaha Museveni. Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi cited the unsuitability of Niwamanya’s sureties, noting that they were of advanced age, which contravenes bail guidelines.
The court proceedings revealed that Niwamanya allegedly forged letters bearing the First Lady’s scanned signature to solicit funds for his organization, Umoja Youth Initiative Development Uganda. The forged letters, addressed “To Whom It May Concern,” sought patronage from various offices for a function at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds. The prosecution presented evidence including testimony from the Investigating Officer, though Niwamanya’s defense team objected, claiming the officer had been present during other witness testimonies, potentially compromising impartiality.
Magistrate Kayizzi announced he would review CCTV footage from previous hearings to determine the validity of the objection and potentially disqualify the Investigating Officer. The case was adjourned to June 18, 2025, with Niwamanya remanded in custody. Niwamanya denies the charges.
