Maserejje informed the court that investigations into the matter are still ongoing and asked the court for an adjournment, which was granted.
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Kassim Migadde one of the NUP supporters remanded to prison.
Uganda People’s Defense Forces- General Court Martial
sitting in Makindye has remanded seven National Unity Platform-NUP supporters
to Kitalya Government prison for unlawful use of military uniform. The suspects
are Regan Ssentongo, Kassim Migadde, Julius Kayiwa,
Christopher Bunju, Jamir Kigozi, Lawrence Ssemwogerere and Moses Nyombi.
They include Boda boda riders from Katabi Sub County in
Wakiso district, an electrician from Bwaise, a Kampala suburb and others whose
businesses are not specified. The suspects appeared on Monday afternoon before
the court-martial chaired by Lt. General Andrew Gutti where they were charged with
unlawful use of military uniform.
Prosecution led by Maj. Samuel Maserejje told the court that on November 18th,
2020, the accused persons were found wearing red berets that are a monopoly of
the Defense Forces and likely to cause confusion. The accused person’s
pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Maserejje informed the court that investigations
into the matter are still ongoing and asked the court for an adjournment, which was
granted. Gutti remanded the accused to February 1st and 2nd 2021 when they will
return for mention of the matter.
Bunju one of the accused persons couldn't stand on his own
in the dock. One of the soldiers manning cells was seen helping him out to
stand and walk on crutches. The accused persons were picked up from various
places in Wakiso and Kampala districts following protests that broke out
shortly after the arrest of the National Unity Platform president, Robert
Kyagulanyi Ssentamu during his campaigns in Luuka district and subsequent
detention at Nalufenya Police Station for alleged violation of COVID-19
guidelines.
Hundreds of people power supporters took to the streets
demanding for his immediate release. About
54 people were gunned down and several injured by security while quelling the
protests. This is not the first time NUP supporters are appearing before the Court
Martial.
Two weeks ago, another group of 49 people picked from Kalangala
district during Kyagulanyi’s campaigns appeared before the same court for illegal
possession of ammunition.
The suspects were expected to return to court
tomorrow. However, the court has adjourned up to next week. Key of the suspects are
Kyagulanyi’s close allies including Edward Sebuufu alias Eddie Mutwe and Ali
Bukenya alias Nubian Li among others.
