Former minister and businesswoman Miria Matembe has made an emotional appeal to court for urgent medical attention after her bail application was rejected in a sectarianism-related case.
Matembe, who has reportedly been held in custody for over a week, appeared before Grade One Magistrate Sheila Gloria Atim at the Luzira Chief Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday evening, where she told court she was in severe pain and in need of immediate medical examination.
“I don’t want to fight. We are all human beings. I know my condition, and my doctors and family are aware. I cannot endure this pain anymore,” she said.
She urged the court to allow her to undergo a medical scan or be taken to hospital, stressing that she was not attempting to evade trial.
“I am not running away. I am a Ugandan citizen. Please allow me to go for a scan or receive treatment. We can pay for it ourselves,” she added.
Matembe further questioned why her visible condition was not being treated as sufficient grounds for urgent medical intervention, insisting that documentation could follow after examination.
“You can see I am in pain, yet you insist on papers. Let me go for the scan and you will get the evidence,” she told court.
She concluded her appeal by asking for compassion from the judiciary, citing the need for mercy and fairness in handling her situation.
In response, Magistrate Atim said the court was sympathetic to Matembe’s condition but emphasized that legal decisions must be based on verified medical evidence.
“I have no reason to deny you treatment considering your age, but I must rely on proper documentation,” the magistrate ruled.
She directed that medical reports be submitted promptly to enable the court make an informed decision, adding that the matter would be reviewed immediately upon receipt of the documents.
The magistrate also rejected any perception of bias, stating that the court was acting strictly within the law and not out of personal judgment.
Matembe remains on remand as the case awaits further mention and further court directions.
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