Why NUP MP Shamim Malende Was Nabbed After Returning from Treatment

Shamim Malende was arrested soon after her return from Nairobi, where she had been undergoing intensive medical treatment for three months. Authorities stated that her arrest was linked to an unauthorized procession held in Kampala.

Malende was detained in downtown Kampala during a large procession from Entebbe Airport that had been organized by her supporters. Police claimed that the event violated public order laws, which led to her arrest and detention at Katwe Police Station.

The Member of Parliament’s supporters had gathered in large numbers to welcome her home, but the police viewed the public display as a breach of existing regulations on political gatherings.

Earlier, at Entebbe Airport, Malende addressed the media, where she expressed her relief and gratitude for having survived her health challenges after receiving treatment abroad.

She also reflected on her colleagues who did not survive similar health battles, including the late lawyer Anthony Wameli and the former Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, both of whom were opposition figures who passed away after prolonged illnesses.

Malende extended her thoughts to other National Unity Platform (NUP) members who are still receiving medical care overseas, such as journalist Ashraf Kasirye and music producer Dan Magic, both of whom were victims of political violence.

Her health issues reportedly stem from injuries she sustained during a scuffle in Parliament, but despite this, she remains determined to contest for her parliamentary seat in the upcoming elections.

The police action against her procession is seen by many observers as a tactic intended to intimidate opposition politicians ahead of the 2026 general election