By Kerry Howard Mwesigwa
The criminal trial of the Nagirinya murder suspects has taken new twist when one of the accused individuals shocked the court by implicating his co-accused in the heinous crime. During the trial on 18th May, one of the accused persons Nassif Kalyango, a 25-year-old boda boda rider made a startling confession regarding his involvement in transporting some of the accused to the crime scene. He accused his co-accused, Copriyam Kasolo (known as Arsenal) and Johnson Lubega (known as Rasta), of actively participating in the crime. While Kalyango did not admit to the kidnap and murder itself, his testimony shed light on the events leading up to the crime and his co-accused’s alleged role.
Kalyango, in his defense, revealed that on the day of the incident, Hassan Kisekka, another boda boda rider and co-accused, brought four passengers to him at the ABC stage in Nateete. Despite initial hesitation to carry all four passengers, Kalyango was coerced by Kisekka to proceed with the job. Seeking assistance, Kalyango contacted Sharif Mpanga, another boda boda rider, who joined them for the ride.
The group of passengers requested transportation to Kalerwe and then Lungujja, claiming to have business there. At a bar in Kalerwe, Kasolo and Lubega boarded Mpanga’s motorcycle, while Kalyango continued with Isaac Ssenabulya towards Lungujja. However, during their journey, an unidentified vehicle approached with flashing lights and continuous honking. Kasolo abruptly exited the motorcycle and instructed Ssenabulya to join them in the car. Following this, Kalyango returned to Nateete without witnessing the alleged crime.
Kalyango vehemently denied his direct involvement in the kidnap, murder, and robbery. Instead, he accused Kasolo and Lubega of falsely implicating him to security operatives. The unexpected nature of his testimony has raised concerns for his safety, as he claimed to have received threats from Kasolo, who warned of severe consequences if he testified against him.
In response to the safety concerns, Justice Isaac Muwata directed the prison authorities to relocate Kalyango to a more secure facility. Additionally, the prosecution requested Julius Sserwambala, the defense lawyer representing Kalyongo, Kasolo, and Lubega, to recuse himself due to a conflict of interest arising from Kalyango’s implicating testimony. Sserwambala acknowledged the request and sought guidance on the matter.
The trial has been adjourned, with a mention scheduled for the 30th of May 2023 when the issue of Lubega Johnson’s representation will be addressed. A ruling on Kasolo’s request for 50 million to summon witnesses will also be delivered. Court has further scheduled 31st of May, 6th and 7th of June for the further hearing of defense witness.
