Comedian Reign granted bail, vows to stand for the truth

 

Comedian Obed Lubega, also known as Reign, who was recently detained for alleged of  social media misuse, has been granted bail.

Reign, famous for his work with the comedy duo "Maulana & Reign," was charged with attempting to commit hate speech after appearing before Mwanga II Magistrate's Court, presided over by Principal Magistrate Adams Byarugaba, who read the charge to him on Thursday.

 The comedian, who is also a strong supporter of the National Unity Platform (NUP), denied the charge of attempting to commit hate speech, which is contrary to the Computer Misuse Act.

Byarugaba granted him a cash bail of Shs1 million, while his sureties received a non-cash bond of Shs10 million.

According to the charge sheet, Reign attempted to incite the public through a video on social media platform.

Shortly after his release, Reign thanked his legal team and supporters who worked tirelessly to secure his release.

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

He also expressed gratitude to his family and fans, stating, "We shall always stand for the truth no matter the intimidation and torture."

Reign was picked up by security forces on Tuesday morning from his home in Mutundwe, Rubaga South Division, Kampala.

Sources close to Reign suggest that his recent involvement in politics and comments regarding the anti-corruption march to Parliament may have contributed to his arrest.

The incident occurred on the same day that security was heightened in the Kampala Metropolitan Area to prevent the youth-led anti-corruption march to Parliament.

Several young people attempting to march to Parliament were arrested in Kampala as anti-corruption activists began their demonstration.