Nickson Agasiirwe Karuhanga, the former Commandant of the Police Special Investigations Unit, has applied to the High Court Criminal Division in Kampala seeking mandatory bail after spending more than 180 days on remand without trial over the murder of senior prosecutor Joan Namazzi Kagezi.

In a Notice of Motion filed before the Criminal Division, Agasiirwe is asking court to grant him bail pending trial on charges of murder contrary to Sections 171 and 172 of the Penal Code Act.

Agasiirwe was arrested on May 21, 2025, in Lugogo, Kampala. He was first detained at the Police Flying Squad Headquarters in Kireka before being transferred to Mbuya Military Detention Centre. On June 16, 2025, he was charged before the Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court and remanded to Luzira Maximum Security Prison, where he remains in custody.

Through his lawyers of Akampurira & Partners Advocates and Legal Consultants, he argues that although he has appeared in court several times, he has not been committed to the High Court for trial due to incomplete investigations.

In a supporting affidavit sworn at Luzira Prison on December 15, 2025, the 54-year-old contends that detention beyond six months without trial violates his constitutional right to a fair and speedy hearing and undermines the presumption of innocence.

He also cites age and health concerns, stating that continued incarceration poses risks to his life.

He maintains that he has a fixed place of abode, substantial sureties, and investments, including land, and is unlikely to abscond.

The application was heard by Criminal Division Judge Isaac Muwata.

The State, represented by Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka, was directed to file written submissions by February 27, 2026.

Agasiirwe will respond on March 3, 2026, with the matter set for mention on March 5, 2026.

Agasiirwe is jointly charged with Abdunoor Ssemujju, alias Minaana, over the 2015 killing of Kagezi. He remains on remand at Luzira as court processes continue.

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