Court confirms charges of murder, terrorism against Mukulu

COURT

KAMPALA - The International Crimes Division of the High Court has confirmed 19 counts including murder against former Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel leader Jamil Mukulu and 37 others.

Other charges are terrorism, attempted murder, aggravated robbery and being a member of a terrorist organisation, ADF.

Justice Eva Luswata ruled that there was sufficient evidence to warrant a trial of the 38 people led by Mukulu. The accused are expected to appear before a panel of three justices to take plea before the trial commences.

"All the 38 people are accordingly committed for trial," Justice Eva Luswata ruled.

Justice Luswata said she could not determine whether the evidence tabled by the prosecution is hearsay and contradictory, adding that it will be determined during the trial.

ADF suspects after appearing at the High Court in Kampala September 17 2019. Photo by Wilfred Sanya

Accusations 

Mukulu and 37 others are implicated in the murder of seven people including Sheikh Abdukadir Muwaya and Sheik Yunus Abubakeri Mandangu.  Muwaya was murdered on December 25, 2014, at Kavule LC1 in Mayuge district.

Others killed were LC3 chairperson Tito Kwa, Julius Owori, police constable Muzamir Babale, special police constable Karim Tenywa and John Stephen Owori.

According to prosecution, the accused committed the offence between 2002 and 2015 in various districts including Kampala for purposes of influencing the government or intimidating the public for political, religious, social or economic aim, and indiscriminately without due regard to the safety of others or property.

The prosecution intends to rely on several exhibits including explosives, guns, ammunition, literature related to activities of ADF, car number plates and confession statements of some suspects during the trial.