Herbert Anderson Burora has found himself behind bars at Luzira Prison, accused of spreading hate speech against none other than Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among. The former Rubaga Division deputy resident city commissioner faced Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi at Buganda Road Court today, July 3, 2024, where he vehemently denied charges of hate speech and disseminating malicious information.
Under the weight of Section 26 of Uganda’s Computer Misuse Act, Burora could face up to seven years in prison if convicted on these serious charges. The accusations stem from allegations that between March and June 2024, using his online persona “@harder HB” on X platform, he shared content intended to degrade Speaker Among and foster animosity towards her.
Burora has a substantial online following of 32,100, which includes students and leaders alike, allegedly crossed the line by spreading misinformation that tarnished the reputation of the Speaker.
Legal Maneuvers and Defenses
Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka informed the court that investigations are ongoing, and urged for an adjournment to allow the police to complete their probe into the matter. Defense lawyer David Kamukama, however, was quick to challenge the charges, arguing that the charge sheet lacked specific details and factual evidence to substantiate the allegations of hate speech and malicious information.
“Count One merely alleges that the accused shared information likely to demean the Speaker without providing any specific statements or evidence. Similarly, the charge of malicious information lacks concrete particulars,” Kamukama asserted in court, pushing for Burora’s release based on these procedural lapses.
From Jobless Brotherhood to Judicial Battle
Burora’s journey to Luzira Prison is a stark contrast to his earlier career. Previously appointed as Nakawa Division deputy resident city commissioner in 2020 before his transfer to Rubaga Division, his tenure in public service was marred by controversy. Earlier this year, he faced suspension by the Secretary to the Office of the President, Haji Yunusu Kakande, for alleged violations of Uganda Public Service Standing Orders. This move saw Burora relinquish office, government vehicles, and other official possessions pending further investigations.
Before entering government service, Burora was associated with the Jobless Brotherhood, a vocal pressure group notorious for challenging security agencies in Kampala. His transition from activist to administrator to now a defendant in a high-profile legal case underscores the twists and turns of his career and private life.
The case has been adjourned to July 9, 2024, for the hearing of Burora’s bail application.
Key Figures and Statements
| Name | Position | Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Herbert Anderson Burora | Former Rubaga Division Deputy RCC | Denies charges of hate speech and malicious information, seeks bail. |
| Richard Birivumbuka | Chief State Attorney | Requests adjournment for ongoing police investigations into the case. |
| David Kamukama | Defense Lawyer | Challenges charge sheet, argues for Burora’s release due to procedural issues. |
| Haji Yunusu Kakande | Secretary to the Office of the President | Suspended Burora earlier in the year pending investigations. |
It remains to be seen whether Burora’s defence will sway the courts or if Luzira Prison will become his temporary residence for the foreseeable future.
