The International Crimes Division of the High Court formally withdrew murder and terrorism charges against the late Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, who passed away in January. This action aligns with legal precedent, as criminal proceedings typically abate upon a suspect’s death, rendering the objectives of punishment and rehabilitation unattainable.
During the court session, the first since Ssegirinya’s death on January 9, 2025, defense lawyer Samuel Muyiizi Mulindwa confirmed his client’s passing and requested the court to amend the indictment. “We appreciate the court’s patience during our client’s illness. Upon his death, the proceedings abated. I apply for the indictment to be amended,” he stated.
Presiding Judge Alice Komuhangi Kaukha acknowledged Ssegirinya’s death and extended condolences to his family and the nation. She then directed the prosecution to amend the indictment and complete disclosure to the remaining accused within two weeks, by April 1st. “The matter is adjourned to April 7th and 8th for pre-trial conferencing and the reading of charges,” she announced.
Prosecutor Richard Birivumbuka, representing the Director of Public Prosecutions, also expressed condolences and requested time to reorganize evidence and amend the indictment to reflect the abatement of charges against Ssegirinya.
MP Allan Ssewanyana of Makindye West, currently on bail, and four co-accused—Mike Sserwadda, Jude Muwonge, Bulo Wamala, John Mugera, and Jackson Kanyike—remain on trial. They face charges of murder, 15 counts of attempted murder, terrorism, and aiding and abetting terrorism, linked to the 2021 Masaka Sub-region killings that resulted in approximately 26 deaths.
Ssegirinya, a National Unity Platform (NUP) member, was elected in 2021 and subsequently arrested. Following his death at Lubaga Hospital, Elias Nalukoola Luyimbazi, also of NUP, won the recent by-election.
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