On Tuesday, October 31, 2023, the courtroom witnessed an unusual turn of events as proceedings in the Susan Magara murder case were unexpectedly deferred due to a rather unconventional reason – the suspects’ hunger. The nine individuals on trial stand accused of the gruesome kidnapping and murder of Susan Magara, a former cashier at her family’s Bwendero Dairy Farm in 2018. Among these defendants are Yusuf Lubega, Hussein Wasswa, Muzamiru Ssali, Hajara Nakandi, Abubaker Kyewolwa, Mahad Kisalita, Hassan Kato Miiro, Ismail Bukenya, and Musa Abbas Buvumbo.
The court session had initially convened for the cross-examination of a prosecution witness, Frank Nyakairu, who had testified that the suspects were apprehended through the mobile phones they used to demand a ransom for Magara’s release. However, the proceedings took an unexpected turn when the defense lawyer, Mr. Richard Kumbuka, presented an unusual request to the court. He informed the court that his clients had gone to bed on an empty stomach the previous night due to the late conclusion of the day’s court activities.
Kumbuka explained that the suspects had returned to Luzira prison after the court session had concluded around 5:30 pm, only to find that supper had already been served, leaving them with no food. Moreover, their limited privileges in prison prevented them from having their relatives purchase meals for them. He emphasized the critical importance of ensuring that his clients receive a fair trial, and their physical well-being is taken into account.
In response to this unusual situation, Judge Alex Ajiji, presiding over the case, decided to adjourn the court proceedings to the following day, November 1. The judge expressed his agreement with the defense counsel and the accused individuals, acknowledging that their hunger made it difficult for them to actively participate in the proceedings. He also clarified that the decision to postpone the hearing was not an indictment of the prison authorities but rather an acknowledgment of the fundamental right to food for all citizens.
