Comedian Reign granted bail in attempt to commit hate speech case

Comedian Reign granted bail in attempt to commit hate speech case
Reign, was picked up by police from his home in Mutundwe, Rubaga South Division, Kampala.

Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | Obed Lubega, better known as Reign, a comedian renowned for his work with the duo “Maulana & Reign,” has been granted bail following his recent detention over allegations of social media misuse.

Reign, a prominent supporter of the National Unity Platform (NUP), faced charges of attempting to commit hate speech. He appeared before the Mwanga II Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, where Principal Magistrate Adams Byarugaba read the charges against him.

Reign, who has denied the accusations of hate speech, was granted bail set at Shs1 million in cash, while his sureties provided a non-cash bond of Shs10 million.

The charge sheet alleges that Reign tried to incite public unrest through a video posted on a social media platform, an offense under the Computer Misuse Act.

Upon his release, Reign expressed gratitude to his legal team and supporters for their efforts in securing his bail.

“I thank my president HE Kyagulanyi Sentamu and counsel Lubongoya; I really can’t thank you enough,” Reign said.

Comedian Obed Lubega, also known as Reign, has been granted bail following his arrest over alleged social media misuse. Reign, who rose to fame with the comedy duo “Maulana & Reign,” was detained on Tuesday morning at his home in Mutundwe, Rubaga South Division, Kampala.

Expressing his appreciation, Reign thanked his family, fans, and legal team, stating, “We shall always stand for the truth no matter the intimidation and torture.”

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His arrest came amidst a politically charged environment, with sources suggesting that his recent political engagement and comments on the anti-corruption march to Parliament might have influenced the decision.

The arrest occurred on the same day as heightened security measures in the Kampala Metropolitan Area aimed at thwarting a youth-led anti-corruption demonstration.

Several participants in the march were detained as activists began their protest against corruption, reflecting the tense political climate surrounding the event.