11 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) have been sent to the High Court on charges of terrorism and the alleged manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The suspects, accused of being members of a group called ‘Go slow, Bobi Wine ahead,’ have been embroiled in a legal saga since their arrest in May 2023.
Among the accused are individuals like Abdu Katumba, Abudallah Katumba, Muhamud Kalyango, Hamidu Ssekidde, and Issa Makumbi, who have been in remand since May 2023. On April 19, 2024, they were committed to the International Crimes Division (ICD) of the High Court to stand trial, following allegations that they conspired to use IEDs to incite a riot aimed at overthrowing President Museveni’s government.
The indictment was read by Ms. Sarah Namusobya, the Nabweru Chief Magistrate, after the state declared that investigations into the case were complete. The suspects are said to have organized riots on May 8, 2023, with the intention of staging a coup to remove President Museveni from power.
According to the state, the suspects’ actions violated the Anti-terrorism Act of 2002 and were allegedly aimed at supporting Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, in his bid to assume the presidency. The state further contends that the group’s activities were intended to influence the government and intimidate the public for political and economic gains.
Police investigators, listed as state witnesses, disclosed that the group was formed in March 2023 and allegedly underwent paramilitary training in Wakiso District. The state claims that materials for making IEDs were purchased from Nakasero market in Kampala, including nails, empty bottles, petrol, charcoal, and electric detonators.
Photographs of the crime scenes were presented as evidence, alongside phone call data records and confessions obtained from the accused during police interrogations. However, the defense lawyers, including Ms. Shamim Malende and Mr. Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, have challenged the prosecution’s evidence, alleging political persecution and fabrication.
Both prosecution and defence await the ICD court’s decision on the hearing date as the legal battle unfolds.
