A Ugandan court granted bail to 36 members of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party on Thursday. The individuals had been detained since July following deportation from Kenya.
The High Court’s International Crimes Division ordered each defendant to post a 5 million Ugandan shilling ($1,400) bail.
Lawyer Erias Lukwago expressed relief, citing the deteriorating health conditions of some detainees due to harsh prison conditions.
The FDC members were apprehended in Kisumu, Kenya, while attending a training program.
As part of their bail terms, they must surrender their passports to the court.
Uganda, under President Yoweri Museveni’s long-standing rule, has been known for its suppression of opposition activities.
Last week, a military tribunal sentenced 16 members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) party to five years in prison on charges of treason and illegal possession of explosives.
The NUP members, who pleaded guilty, have been accused of possessing explosives during the 2020-2021 election period.
However, party leader Bobi Wine alleges coercion and forced pleas, urging a presidential pardon.