The Local Council 2 (LC2) Chairperson of Kitojo Parish in Rwamucucu Sub-County, Rutare Naturinda Amon, has been remanded to Ndorwa Government Prison after being charged with two counts of assault and causing grievous harm. The charges stem from an incident that occurred during President Yoweri Museveni’s rally at Rushebeya Playground on February 14, 2024.
According to the prosecution, led by Kabale Senior Resident State Attorney Julie Nanjunju, Rutare, along with Peter Niwahereza and Ronald Kitariko (who are currently at large), allegedly assaulted and injured Innocent Mugarura and Peter Muhereza, both residents of Rushebeya Trading Centre. The incident reportedly took place on the same day as the presidential rally.
In Kabale Chief Magistrate’s Court, presided over by Derrick Byamugisha, Rutare pleaded not guilty to the charges. State Attorney Nanjunju informed the court that investigations had been completed and requested a hearing date.
Rutare’s application for bail was denied by Magistrate Byamugisha, who ordered that he be remanded to Ndorwa Government Prison until his next court appearance, where both his case and bail application will be addressed.
Peter Niwahereza, one of the victims, alleges that the attack was politically motivated. He claims that Rutare and Ronald Kitariko assaulted him after accusing him of not supporting Rukiga District Woman MP Caroline Kamusiime Muhwezi. “I ran to the police and reported the case, but Rutare was arrested and later released on bond,” Niwahereza stated, expressing his desire for justice.
Innocent Mugarura, another complainant, said he was assaulted while attempting to intervene and rescue Niwahereza from Rutare and his associates.
The two victims later reported the incident to Rwamucucu Police Station, which led to Rutare’s arrest. He remains in Ndorwa Government Prison awaiting further court proceedings.
