By Racheal Najjuma
21st June 2023
The Buganda Road Magistrates Court has issued criminal summons against opposition politicians Dr. Kiiza Besigye and Samuel Lubega Mukaaku due to their failure to appear in court for the scheduled hearing in their incitement to violence case.
Grade One Magistrate Asuman Muhumuza issued the summons on Wednesday when the prosecution was expected to present additional witnesses.
According to the prosecution, the defendants are jointly charged with making statements on June 14, 2022, in Kikuubo, Shauriyako parish, Kampala city, which suggested a desire to engage in demonstrations that could lead to violence and property damage.
The charges stem from a protest against the escalating prices of commodities in the country.
Besigye, a four-time Presidential Candidate, and Mukaaku, a former Rubaga North Parliamentary Candidate, were granted bail and instructed to attend court as required.
However, neither Besigye nor Mukaaku or their legal representatives were present in court as expected.
Consequently, the prosecution, led by Allan Mucunguzi and accompanied by two arresting officers prepared to testify, requested the issuance of criminal summons against the accused individuals.
The prosecution also presented exhibits, including placards and a megaphone believed to have been used during the alleged crimes.
The presiding magistrate agreed with the prosecutor’s request and issued a criminal summons, compelling Besigye and Mukaaku to appear in court on July 27, 2023, without fail.
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