Sandra Ainebyoona.
KAMPALA, Uganda – The assessors in the infamous Maria Nagirinya and Ronald Kitayimbwa murder case have advised the Judge to convict the six accused individuals and find them guilty of orchestrating the heinous crime. This decision comes after meticulous analysis of evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense, setting the stage for a highly anticipated judgment by Judge Isaac Muwata, scheduled for October 19, 2023.
The assessors, Sharp Mutoni and Simon Okongo, left no room for doubt as they unanimously concurred in their opinion. Mutoni, speaking on behalf of the pair, stated unequivocally, “We are of the joint opinion that evidence provided by the prosecution proved beyond reasonable doubt about the conduct and involvement of each of the accused in the commission of the crime. This court should accordingly convict the accused persons as charged.”
According to the assessors, the prosecution’s evidence paints a chilling picture of Coporiyamu Kasolo, known as Arsenal, as the mastermind behind the crime. Kasolo not only orchestrated the mission but also recruited his accomplices and used a toy pistol to instill fear in the victims. He actively participated in the murder, serving as the driver during the harrowing incident.
Isaac Ssenabulya, a participant turned state witness, further corroborated the damning evidence against Kasolo, Johnson Lubega, and himself. Their testimonies aligned with the prosecution’s case, revealing how they rode separate motorcycles to abduct Nagirinya and Kitayimbwa.
Hassan Kisekka’s involvement shocked the court as he supplied Kasolo with a red jacket used to conceal the toy pistol. Meanwhile, seemingly innocent boda boda riders, Mpanga Sharif and Nasif Kalyango, were implicated in the assessors’ opinion. Initially claiming they were hired only for transportation, the assessors firmly believe they played an integral role in the crime, staying at the scene to secure the others before fleeing, a conclusion supported by CCTV footage.
Crucially, the assessors refuted claims of torture by Kasolo and Lubega, presenting evidence from call data records and technical reports from experts. These records showed the accused were in constant communication before, during, and after the crime, indicating their active participation.
As the trial nears its conclusion, the nation watches with anticipation. The assessors’ unanimous verdict suggests that all six accused individuals are individually and collectively liable for the kidnap, murder, and robbery, all committed with an unlawful intent.
The impending judgment by Judge Isaac Muwata will ultimately determine whether justice will be served for Maria Nagirinya, Ronald Kitayimbwa, and their grieving families. This high-stakes courtroom drama, marred by controversy and vehement denials, has left the accused at the center of a legal storm that may soon reach its climax.
