Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | The Kasangati Chief Magistrates Court has remanded former Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka and her Deputy, David Luyimbazi, on 57 charges, including manslaughter and causing death or harm through negligence.
On Friday 18, October 2024, Kisaka, Luyimbazi, and the Director of Public Health, Dr. Daniel Okello, appeared before Chief Magistrate Beatrice Khainza, facing 34 counts of manslaughter, alternative charges of causing death by reckless or negligent acts, and additional charges of causing harm through similar negligence.
The charges stem from the tragic collapse of the Kiteezi landfill on August 10, 2024, which resulted in the deaths of 35 people and injuries to 21 others.
The prosecution contends that the disaster could have been prevented had the accused fulfilled their duties as KCCA’s Executive Director, Deputy Executive Director, and Director of Public Health.
All three accused have pleaded not guilty to the charges. State Attorney Lillian Omara informed the court that investigations are ongoing and requested an adjournment.
Defense lawyers, including Fred Muwema, sought to apply for bail for the accused.
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Muwema argued that the circumstances warranted an immediate hearing, as the accused had cooperated with the police and were brought to court in the morning but left waiting until late afternoon due to delays by the State Attorneys.
He also requested temporary bail, citing the defendants’ compliance with the authorities.
However, Chief Magistrate Khainza declined to hear the bail applications, stating that the court had already exceeded its working hours. She advised the defense to file formal applications for bail.
Kisaka, Luyimbazi, and Dr. Okello have been remanded until November 4th, pending further proceedings.
