NAKAWA, UGANDA –– Abdul Noor Ssemwogerere Ssemujju, also known as Minana, a former operative with the Police Flying Squad, has been remanded to Luzira Prison in connection with the 2015 murder of senior prosecutor Joan Kagezi. Minana was arrested last week and appeared before the Chief Magistrates Court in Nakawa on Tuesday.
Appearing before Chief Magistrate Esther Nyadoi, Minana faced charges of murder under sections 171 and 172 of the Penal Code Act. The charges stem from the high-profile assassination of Kagezi, who was gunned down almost a decade ago.
During the court proceedings, Minana reportedly claimed that he received “orders from above” in connection with Kagezi’s killing. This dramatic assertion comes as he faces serious charges in a case that has remained a key concern for authorities and human rights advocates since her assassination. The plea for former Inspector General of Police Kale Kayihura to “come and save me” was also attributed to him, implying a connection to higher authority.
According to the state, Minana is accused of unlawfully causing Kagezi’s death alongside another suspect, Nixon Agasiirwe, also a former security officer, who had previously faced charges in connection with the same case.
Minana was not allowed to enter a plea during his court appearance, as murder charges fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the High Court. He can only respond to the charges once the case is formally committed for trial at that level.
Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka informed the court that investigations into Kagezi’s murder are still ongoing and requested additional time for inquiries to be completed. Chief Magistrate Esther Nyadoi granted the prosecution’s request, remanding Minana to Luzira prison until July 8, when his case will be mentioned again.
Minana’s remand marks him as the second high-profile suspect from the security sector to face formal charges in relation to Kagezi’s killing.
At the time of her death, Joan Kagezi served as a Senior Principal State Attorney. She was notably involved in prosecuting sensitive terrorism and war crimes cases, including those linked to the devastating 2010 Kampala bombings
