Kampala, (UG): The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has withdrawn charges of disobedience and common nuisance against First Son and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The decision of the DPP was revealed by Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi at Buganda Road Court, who announced in a ruling that, “I accept the withdrawal and the charges against Muhoozi are hereby withdrawn.”
According to the withdrawal form, signed by the DPP, Justice Jane Frances Abodo, the main reason to drop the charges against the First son is the lack of credible evidence in the case over the past year.
Prosecution led by Mr Ivan Kyazze, presented the form seeking leave of court to discontinue the proceedings.
“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,” Kyazze explained.
Mabirizi dissatisfied, vows to seek justice
Controversial lawyer, Hassan Male Mabirizi filed charges against Gen Muhoozi in November 2022, alleging that the General addressed a political gathering at Kololo Independence Grounds without resigning from the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF).
However, he expressed his dissatisfaction with the court’s proceedings accusing the court of taking action without hearing from him, the original complainant in the case.
“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.
According to Mabirizi, the move by the DPP violates section 99 of the UPDF Act, which prohibits serving military personnel from engaging in political activities arguing that Gen Muhoozi’s actions caused public annoyance and inconvenience, thereby infringing on their rights.
He therefore 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.”
This sudden development leaves political observers and the public in suspense, as they await the potential repercussions and the broader implications on the political landscape.
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