Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-16 09:22:11
A National Unity Platform (NUP) supporter, Muydin Kakooza, also known as Saanya, has been on remand since May 2021. On Monday, he made a bold move by jumping out of the dock to charge at army court’s chairman, Brig Robert Mugabe, after being denied bail for the third time. Kakooza is among 27 other individuals, including Yasin Ssekitoleko alias Machete, Robert Christopher Rugumayo, Patrick Mwase, and others, accused of illegal possession of 13 pieces of explosive devices between November 2020 and May 2021 in various locations such as Jinja, Mbale, Kireka, and Kampala Central.
The court’s decision to deny bail was based on the suspects’ inability to prove that they had fixed places of abode within the court’s jurisdiction. Although the sureties provided by the accused, including leader of opposition in parliament Joel Ssenyonyi, were considered substantial, the fear of potential absconding led to the denial of bail. Following the court ruling, Kakooza and the other suspects, along with their relatives, became rowdy, prompting increased security measures at the court premises. Kakooza’s passionate outburst led to his removal from the court hall by military police.
The relatives of the accused and their sureties expressed concern over the violation of the accused persons’ right to liberty. The accused individuals have been further remanded until May 6, 2024, pending the presentation of the seventh witness by the prosecution. Initially, there were 32 suspects, but only four were granted bail in April 2023 due to substantial sureties. The remaining 28 supporters have been in remand at Kitalya and Luzira prisons since May 2021.
The arrests of the accused were carried out by CMI operatives following allegations by the police that they were planning petrol bomb attacks on government vehicles and buildings across the country. The suspects were also accused of orchestrating attacks on various locations, including the Kasubi Royal tombs, the Uganda Registration Services Bureau building, and the Katwe Police station. Additionally, they were reportedly planning to disrupt President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s swearing-in for his sixth term in office.
The court’s decision to deny bail has sparked outrage among the accused persons and their supporters. The ongoing legal battle highlights the complex political landscape in Uganda and the challenges faced by opposition supporters. Despite facing adversity, individuals like Muydin Kakooza continue to fight for their rights and the freedom of others. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding justice and ensuring fair treatment for all individuals, regardless of their political affiliations.
Read Original article on The Observer
