By Hannah Marion Namukasa
Dr Lina Zedriga, the Deputy President for Northern Uganda of the National Unity Platform (NUP), appeared before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Gulu on Thursday morning after three weeks incommunicado.
Zedriga was presented before Chief Magistrate Augustine Alule, where she was formally charged with inciting violence contrary to Section 79(1) of the Penal Code Act. The court remanded her until February 17.
According to the prosecution, the alleged offences were committed in December 2025 at various locations across Northern Uganda, including Gulu, Amuru, Omoro and Nwoya districts. Prosecutors claim that Zedriga incited members of the public to commit acts of violence, specifically urging attacks against supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) on the basis of their political affiliation.
The charge was preferred by police attached to Aswa West Police Station under Police Charge Gulu CRB 068/2026 and was sanctioned on February 6, 2026.
Her court appearance comes after weeks of uncertainty and heightened political tension following her disappearance ahead of polling day in the national presidential elections. During her absence, NUP leaders repeatedly alleged that she had been abducted by the military and detained at an undisclosed location, claims the authorities have not publicly addressed.
The disappearance sparked widespread concern nationally and within the region. Leaders from the West Nile region earlier issued an emotional appeal to government authorities, demanding clarity on Zedriga’s whereabouts and wellbeing.
Zedriga has been remanded to prison until 17th February 2026
