KAMPALA. The long-awaited trial of former Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) commander Jamil Mukulu finally kicked off at the International Crimes Division of the High Court in Kampala, more than 11 years after his arrest.
Mukulu and 24 of his co-accused face charges including murder, treason, terrorism, insurgency, and crimes against humanity.
Brought to court under tight security, Mukulu appeared in court amid intense anticipation, though the first day ended in adjournment without any witnesses being heard.
The prosecution, citing the need to tender documentary evidence, sought to introduce a postmortem report on Sheikh Abdul Kadir Muwaya, a victim of an ADF-linked killing.
Defense lawyers objected, arguing that the evidence had not been cleared during pre-trial sessions.
“The state cannot proceed with evidence we have not agreed on. Our clients’ rights must be respected,” said Caleb Alaka, one of Mukulu’s lawyers.
The judges adjourned the proceedings to Thursday, October 2 at 11am, to allow both sides to settle on admissible evidence.
The trial has also brought attention to prison procedures. Mukulu’s legal team accused Luzira Upper Prison authorities of mistreatment and limiting his access to counsel.
Denis Arinaitwe dismissed the claims, saying, “There is no mistreatment. We are following security procedures, and the accused are being handled in accordance with the law.”
Judges advised Mukulu to petition the Uganda Human Rights Commission over his complaints, but his lawyers said he had already done so “in vain.”
The trial follows the earlier conviction of 13 of the 38 originally accused, who pleaded guilty and received sentences ranging from 13 to 16 years.
Mukulu and the remaining 25 defendants continue to face multiple charges carrying severe penalties if convicted.