Uganda Prisons Service has provided an update on the condition of Sauda “Saudah” Madada, a supporter of the National Unity Platform (NUP), following a medical emergency at Kawempe Chief Magistrate Court on Tuesday. Madada, who collapsed in the court’s holding cells and vomited blood, was rushed to hospital for immediate care.
Spokesperson Frank Baine confirmed that Madada had been admitted to Luzira Prison in September 2025 with a pre-existing medical condition, which prison authorities have been managing. He reassured the public that she is now stable and continues to receive medical attention.
Madada, facing charges of unlawful military drilling and conspiracy to commit a felony, was already in a fragile state, connected to a urinary catheter, when she appeared in court. Magistrate Damalie Agumasiimwe assessed her condition, declared her unfit to participate in proceedings, and ordered an ambulance to transport her to hospital. Her mother was permitted to accompany her during the transfer.
The magistrate apologized for the failure to report Madada’s medical condition prior to the hearing, stressing the court’s responsibility to protect detainees’ welfare. Lawyers for Madada and other NUP supporters have highlighted the risks posed by prolonged detention without bail, especially for detainees with medical vulnerabilities. A bail ruling for Madada and 10 other NUP supporters is scheduled for 5 December 2025.
The incident has reignited public debate about the treatment of political detainees and the capacity of the prison and judicial systems to ensure adequate healthcare for prisoners, particularly those in fragile health.
