NUP decries continued detention of vice president Zedriga

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The National Unity Platform (NUP) has expressed profound discontent and deep concern over the continued detention and remand of its deputy president for northern Uganda, Lina Zedriga Waru, aged 64.

The atmosphere was tense as party leaders addressed the media at the Gulu City Court premises after the court remanded Zedriga for a further 30 days until February 24, 2026. They described her detention as unlawful and politically motivated, and a blatant violation of her constitutional rights.

Salim Hadad, NUP secretary for legal affairs and head of the party’s legal department, revealed details about Zedriga’s treatment. He asserted that she has been held in military custody for over two weeks, a situation he described as unprecedented and unconstitutional for a civilian.

Initially detained without formal charges, she was later accused of incitement to violence under Section 79(1) of the Penal Code Act (Cap 128).

“A habeas corpus application had been filed before the High Court’s Civil Division seeking her production in court,” Hadad explained. “However, on the very day we expected a ruling, she was mysteriously transferred and subsequently arraigned, a move that we believe was designed to obstruct any legal recourse.”

He emphasised that her detention raises serious concerns regarding fundamental rights, including liberty, protection against unlawful arrest and the right to a fair hearing.

Objection to virtual court appearance

During court proceedings on Tuesday (February 17) presided over by Chief Magistrate Augustine Alule Koma, Zedriga was initially presented virtually from Gulu Main Prison.

This arrangement prompted immediate objections from her defence team, led by lawyer Jonathan Elotu, who argued that no valid security threats justified her virtual appearance.

They highlighted severe disruptions caused by poor internet connectivity, which hindered effective communication and affected the proceedings.

After considering the objections, the magistrate ruled in favour of the defence, affirming that the accused has a right to be physically present in court.

Zedriga was subsequently brought into the courtroom.

NUP leaders maintained that a physical court appearance is not merely a privilege but a constitutional right that should not be undermined by administrative convenience.

Bail delayed over verification

The defence team presented a bail application supported by documentation from close family members and respected local leaders who stood as sureties. All necessary paperwork, including national identification and letters of recommendation, was prepared.

However, the prosecution, represented by Patricia Edyedo, requested two weeks to verify the documents, a delay the defence team described as excessive and unjustifiable.

In light of this, the court remanded Zedriga until February 24, 2026.

NUP officials argued that document verification should not take more than a few hours and described the delay as punitive and an infringement on her rights.

Investigations still ongoing

During the proceedings, the prosecution stated that investigations into the allegations
were ongoing.

According to court documents, Zedriga is charged under the Penal Code Act for allegedly inciting violence in December 2025 during statements made in Gulu city and the neighbouring districts of Amuru, Omoro and Nwoya.

The state alleges that her comments incited attacks on supporters of the National Resistance Movement based on their political affiliation.

NUP criticised this approach, questioning the rationale of filing charges before investigations are complete.

“The sequence of events—arresting, detaining extensively, charging, and only then conducting investigations—undermines the principles of procedural fairness and signals blatant political targeting,” argued Jonathan Elotu, the lead counsel for Zedriga’s defence team.

Allegations of political persecution

The party maintains that Zedriga’s detention reflects a broader strategy of targeting NUP leaders nationwide.

They emphasised that she is a former magistrate and long-serving public servant with strong community ties in Northern Uganda. They argue that she poses no flight risk and is deserving of bail.

NUP’s position

NUP reiterated its demands for immediate respect for her constitutional rights, an end to the military detention of civilians, the granting of bail pending trial, and the completion of investigations before arraignment.

The party said it remains committed to pursuing all legal avenues to secure her release and pledged to return to court prepared to challenge what it describes as ongoing injustices.

“We remain hopeful that justice will prevail,” expressed Salim, urging the public and legal community to closely monitor the case.

Despite the circumstances, Zedriga appeared calm during her court appearance.

She wore a blue long-sleeved skirt featuring an image of Mary carrying baby Jesus and a rosary around her neck. Her hair was neatly styled, and she held a small piece of paper as two prison warders stood behind her.

Zedriga’s legal team comprises four members, led by Jonathan Elotu. He is joined by Beatrice Babra Angufiru from the Uganda Law Society, volunteer lawyer Oscar Kizza, and Salim Hadad, head of the legal department at the National Unity Platform.

Together, they are representing her in the case.