Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | On Tuesday evening, Nakawa and Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Courts were bustling as individuals arrested during the anti-corruption march to Parliament were brought before the courts.
Over 50 suspects were remanded to Luzira Prison following their alleged participation in the anti-corruption demonstrations held earlier in the city.
The accused were distributed between the Nakawa and Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Courts, where they faced charges amid a heightened security presence from the Uganda Police. Armed officers, equipped with guns and batons, were stationed inside and outside the court buildings.
The suspects were charged with two offenses: common nuisance and being idle and disorderly. They appeared before Chief Magistrate Ritah Neumbe Kidhasa and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Among the anti-corruption protesters arraigned were Thomas Kanzira, a medical doctor; Faiza Salima, a journalist; Bernard Olupot, a marketer; Hamala Edgar Barlow, a senior photographer; and Aljab Musinguzi, a resident of Nakawa Division. They were remanded until July 30, 2024.
Some individuals were brought before Buganda Road Court, where they faced Grade One Magistrate Caroline Kyoshabire and were remanded until August 5, 2024, as investigations continue. The group included students, business professionals, KCCA councilors, veterinary doctors, and other politicians.
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Additionally, several accused, including notable local movie actresses like Nabossa, appeared before Grade One Magistrates Jalia Basajjabalaba and Sanula Nambozo. They were remanded until August 6, 2024, and July 31, 2024, respectively.
Prosecution alleges that the suspects caused a disturbance at Parliamentary Avenue and Oasis Mall Nakumatt by marching with placards demanding the resignation of Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among. This action was deemed unauthorized by law and disruptive to the public.
The charges also include allegations of behavior likely to incite a breach of peace.
Representatives from the Uganda Law Society, led by President Bernard Oundo, defended the accused. The courtroom was filled with their relatives and supporters who came to stand as sureties and express solidarity.
Following the remand proceedings, chaos erupted as additional arrests were made within the court premises. Protesters demonstrated against the remand of their peers, leading to further disturbances.
