The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
The Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) has dropped charges against 17 suspects over the killing of Muslim Clerics in Uganda. They will however face new charges of treason.
The 17 were part of a group of 31 awaiting trial over the killing of Muslim Clerics.
Principal Senior State Attorney Lino Anguzu informed Kampala High court judge Duncan Gaswaga who had come to handle their pre-trial session on Monday, that apart from 14 remaining suspects, the DPP is no longer interested in proceeding to try the 17.
The 17 include Aisha Kasibante who is said to be a relative of Dr.Aggrey Kiyingi, Muzamiru Kasawuli, Serunjogi Arafat Okoy Alex, Olanya Joseph, Okidi Charles, Sgt Mubaje Arajab, Mutanda Isa, Haji Byamukama Abdul Ratif, Ssemogerere Asadu, Kibirige Solomon, Wadwali Safiyi, Yusufu Ssentamu, Muhammad Kaloddo, Ismail Ssentongo and Bampiki Robert.
The 14 whose trial before the International Crimes Division Court is being prepared include Tabliq leader Shiekh Mohammad Yonous Kamoga, Shiekh Siraje Kawooya, Shiekh Murta Mudde Bukenya and Shiekh Fahad Karungi among others.
The accused face charges of murder, attempted murder, terrorism and crimes against humanity that have been dropped against the 17.
Except for Robert Bampiki, 16 of the 17 were arraigned before Nakawa Magistrate court last month and face fresh charges of treason and concealment of treason. They were then immediately committed to the High court for trial.
This means they will remain on remand in Luzira prison over the pending treason charge, which they are alleged to have committed between January 2014 and January 2015 in various places including United Arab Emirates, Kenya and Tanzania. The accusation is that they contrived a plot to overthrow the government of Uganda by force of arms.
