Today marks the commencement of the trial for eight individuals charged with the murder of Major Muhammad Kiggundu and his bodyguard Sergeant Steven Mukasa. The proceedings are set to unfold at the International Crimes Division of the High Court in Kampala.
The accused individuals facing trial are Yusuf Nyanzi, Sheikh Yahaya Ramathan Mwanje, Mohammed Buyondo also known as Matiya, Abdu Wahab Sendegeya, Musa Ssekandi also known as Masanafu, Jibril Kalyango also known as Bin Suleiman, Bruhan Balyejusa Kalyango, and Noordin Lutaya also known as Ibrahim Ssemwanga.
Presiding over the court proceedings will be a panel of justices comprising Susan Okalany, Patricia Basaza Wasswa, Andrew Bashaija, and Alice Komuhangi.
The tragic events leading to the death of Major Kiggundu and Sergeant Mukasa occurred on November 26, 2016, in Masanafu, a suburb of Kampala. Following the incident, the aforementioned suspects were apprehended and charged with the heinous crime of murder, an offense punishable by the maximum penalty of death upon conviction.
In a ruling issued on December 18, 2023, Justice Richard Wejuli Wabwire affirmed the murder charges against the accused individuals after the prosecution presented compelling evidence to substantiate the allegations.
Additionally, the court upheld accusations of aiding and abetting terrorism against Mohammed Buyondo, Abdu Wahab Sendegeya, Musa Ssekandi, Yusuf Nyanzi, Bruhan Balyejusa, and Noordin Lutaya. Furthermore, allegations of affiliation with or support for a terrorist organization were confirmed against Bruhan Balyejusa and Noordin Lutaya.
Consequently, the judge directed the accused individuals to stand trial before the designated panel, marking a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
Major Kiggundu’s untimely demise occurred amidst his involvement as a witness in the ongoing “Clerics Murders” case in Uganda. Notably, Major Kiggundu himself was a cleric, adding layers of complexity and significance to the circumstances surrounding his tragic assassination.
