The General Court Martial (GCM) in Uganda has provided crucial advice to a group of National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters who are facing serious charges of treachery and illegal possession of explosives. The accused, who have been on remand for more than three years, are alleged to have participated in activities aimed at overthrowing the Ugandan government as part of a group known as “Bali Bali.”
During a hearing on August 20, 2024, GCM Judge Advocate Col. Richard Tukachungura addressed the defense attorneys’ request for some of the suspects to change their pleas, while others wished to enter into plea bargains with the state. The suspects include individuals such as Rashid Sseguja, also known as Chairman Kakooza, Yasin Ssekitoleko, and others, who are accused of engaging in war-like activities between March and May 2021 in various areas including Kampala, Jinja, and Mbale.
In response to the defense’s request, Col. Tukachungura emphasized the gravity of the charges, which carry maximum penalties, including the death sentence. He advised the defense lawyers to ensure their clients fully understood the consequences of pleading guilty to such serious offenses. The judge also explained that the plea bargain process requires careful coordination with the state, including submitting written proposals and agreeing on appropriate punishments before presenting them to the court.
The case, presided over by GCM Chairman Brig. Gen. Robert Freeman Mugabe, was adjourned until September 9, 2024, to allow time for both the defense and the prosecution to discuss and finalize any potential plea bargains. The charges against the accused are severe, alleging that they recruited, trained, and unlawfully used explosive devices in acts that threatened national security.
The prosecution, led by Lt. Col. Raphael Mugisha, Capt. Ambroz Guma, and Capt. Alex Rasto Mukhwana of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), will continue to argue the case when it resumes. The suspects’ potential plea bargains could play a significant role in the outcome of this high profile case.
