The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has withdrawn charges of disobedience and common nuisance against First Son Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The decision was handed down by Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi at Buganda Road Court on September 24, 2023.
The withdrawal form, signed by the DPP, Justice Jane Frances Abodo, cited lack of credible evidence in the case over the past year. The charges stemmed from a complaint filed by Male Mabirizi in November 2022, alleging that Kainerugaba addressed a political gathering at Kololo Independence Grounds without resigning from the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF).
Prosecution, led by Mr. Ivan Kyazze, presented the withdrawal form, seeking leave of court to discontinue the proceedings. Kyazze explained, “Investigations were directed, but nothing fruitful was obtained. Due to the absence of credible evidence, I have been instructed to inform this court that the DPP has decided to discontinue proceedings against Muhoozi.”
However, Mr. Mabirizi expressed his dissatisfaction with the court’s proceedings.
“The magistrate has allowed the withdrawal without hearing from me, the person who brought the case,” Mabirizi protested. He contended that the constitution mandates the DPP to continue the case after taking it over and that the magistrate should have ensured Mabirizi’s testimony was heard.
Mabirizi has vowed to take the matter to the High Court, stating, “This is the reason why I have been challenging these takeovers by the DPP. We are going to the High Court to challenge the withdrawal and refusal for stay over proceedings.”
The sudden development leaves political observers and the public in suspense, as they await the potential repercussions and the broader implications on the political landscape.
The withdrawal of charges against Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba marks a significant shift in this ongoing legal battle, leaving many questions unanswered. It is unclear what led the DPP to withdraw the charges, or how this decision will impact the political landscape in Uganda.
