Accused of Spreading Hate Speech Against Top Ugandan Leaders, Maduballah Stands His Ground
KAMPALA – Tension filled the courtroom today as popular TikTok personality and former shoe hawker, Maduballah—real name Musuuza—refused to proceed with his trial, citing the absence of his lead lawyer. Dressed in a simple shirt and visibly composed, Maduballah stunned court officials and onlookers when he rose to his feet and boldly told the magistrate, “I cannot continue without my lawyer. I don’t trust that I’ll get a fair hearing without the one person who understands my case fully.”
The magistrate attempted to calm the situation, but Maduballah stood firm in his request, prompting murmurs of support from a few of his loyal fans present in court. “I’m not trying to delay proceedings. I just want justice served the right way,” he added.
Maduballah is facing serious charges of hate speech and spreading malicious information targeting Uganda’s top leaders. The charges stem from videos and posts made on his TikTok account in October 2024, in which he allegedly attacked President Yoweri Museveni, First Son Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and Speaker of Parliament Anita Among. His commentary, laced with satire and criticism, was seen by authorities as inflammatory, particularly given his strong support for opposition figure Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine).
Despite the accused’s passionate appeal, the prosecution maintained that the case must proceed, arguing that ample time had been given to prepare a defense. “This is an issue of accountability. Justice delayed is justice denied,” said one prosecutor.
The case has drawn widespread public interest, particularly from youth on social media who view Maduballah as a symbol of free expression in the digital age.
The court is expected to reconvene later this week to determine the next step in the trial.
