Kampala, Uganda
The International Crimes Division of the High Court is gearing up for a significant verdict in the high-profile murder case of former Police Spokesperson, Andrew Felix Kaweesi. With seven suspects implicated in the tragic event that shocked the nation, the court has scheduled the ruling for the 27th of November, 2023.
The murder of Andrew Felix Kaweesi, along with his bodyguard and driver, on 17th March 2017 in Kulambiro Nakawa Division, Kampala District, has gripped the nation for years. Under the leadership of Justice Alice Komuhangi, the courtroom witnessed the final submissions from both the prosecution and defense before the much-anticipated judgment.
However, a startling development arose during the trial when one of the defense lawyers, Ladislaus Rwakafuuzi, representing the accused, raised concerns about the whereabouts of three suspects who had been re-arrested. He informed the court that his clients, Sauda Ayub, Hassan Tumusiime, and Swale Damulira, were taken into custody again by plain-clothed operatives outside his residence. The disappearance of these suspects raised questions about their safety and potential involvement in the case.
In response to the concerns, Justice Komuhangi clarified that the court’s records did not contain the names of the re-arrested suspects, except for Shafiq Kasujja, who was still missing. The situation escalated as Rwakafuuzi sought answers and justice for his clients, demanding transparency from the authorities.
Amidst the unfolding drama, both lawyers and accused persons raised preliminary objections, leading to a temporary halt in the proceedings to address these concerns and ensure a streamlined process.
Adding to the gravity of the case, one of the accused, Hamza Higenyi, bravely recounted his alleged ordeal of torture while in custody. He revealed being confined in a safe house belonging to the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI) and subjected to severe abuse, including being fed food containing sand. Higenyi’s plea for a medical examination at Mulago National Referral Hospital to ascertain his condition struck a chord with the court.
This high-profile trial, marked by allegations of torture and human rights violations, underscores the paramount importance of upholding justice, especially in cases of such significance. Rwakafuuzi also highlighted that retired Lady Justice Margret Oumo Oguli had previously awarded each suspect compensation of Shillings 80 million for the alleged torture, which the government has yet to fulfill, leaving the victims without restitution.
Despite the challenges faced during the proceedings, Justice Komuhangi remains steadfast in her commitment to lead the court towards a just resolution in this case.
As the nation waits in anticipation for the impending verdict, the eyes of Uganda and the world are on the International Crimes Division of the High Court, hoping for a fair and conclusive outcome in the trial of those accused in the murder of Andrew Felix Kaweesi.
