Sandra Ainebyoona.
KAMPALA, 21st September 2023 – Hanipher Mpungu, the embattled Deputy Mayor of Kampala Central, made her appearance before Chief Magistrate Ritah Neumbe Kidasa at the Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court today the 21st of September. The courtroom was brimming with anticipation as Mpungu, flanked by her legal representatives, sought bail amidst the ongoing legal battle that has captured the city’s attention.
Mpungu’s legal team, led by Ben Wagabaza and Bashir Nyanzi, presented a compelling case for her release. With unwavering determination, they introduced five sureties, including her own father, Ali Mpungu, a 77-year-old retired civil servant. Their argument centered on Mpungu’s sincere intention to reconcile with the complainant and the non-violent nature of the alleged offense. They underlined the court’s emphasis on promoting reconciliation and contended that her continued incarceration posed an obstacle to this process.
On the opposing side, State Attorney Doreen Elima, representing the prosecution, expressed her lack of access to the police file and requested time for the verification of the bail documents. She raised concerns about the possibility of Mpungu absconding if granted bail. Moreover, she presented a sworn affidavit from the investigating officer, revealing that Mpungu had been released on bond on August 12th, 2023, but had failed to honor the bond’s terms. Allegations also emerged that Mpungu’s lawyer had falsely claimed her hospitalization at the Wellington Diabetes and Heart Centre Nakasero. Detective AIP Peter Abwona’s thorough investigation uncovered no evidence of her presence at the said medical facility. In light of these developments, Ms. Doreen Elima proposed the postponement of the bail application to a later date.
Chief Magistrate Kidasa, after careful consideration, adjourned the matter to October 4th, 2023. This decision allowed the prosecution the necessary time to verify the presented bail documents thoroughly. In the interim, Hanipher Mpungu remained in remand at the Luzira prison, a situation that continued to weigh heavily on the proceedings.
The legal issues facing Hanipher Mpungu stem from allegations of obtaining money under false pretense. Prosecutors assert that between May and June 2022, within Ntinda, Kampala, Mpungu received a substantial sum of Shillings 450 million from Grace Tony Mulinde Lugayuzi in exchange for a parcel of land. Mpungu allegedly failed to deliver on her end of the agreement, leading to accusations of fraudulent conduct. Throughout the court proceedings, Mpungu has steadfastly pleaded not guilty to the charges leveled against her.
