The Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court has dismissed nuisance charges against 14 members of the FDC Katonga faction, including Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemuju Nganda and Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura.
Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi threw out the case after prosecutors failed to produce a single witness since the accused were arrested on August 5, 2024, during a protest march to the Kenyan High Commission in Kampala. Defense lawyer Samuel Wanda slammed the delays, calling for the case to be dismissed under Section 119 of the Magistrates Court Act, and the court agreed.
The group, which included high-profile figures like Ingrid Turinawe, FDC Secretary General Harold Kaija, and Kabale Municipality MP Nicholas Kamara, was accused of causing chaos, blocking walkways, and inconveniencing the public during their protest. However, with no witnesses in sight, the court ordered their immediate release.
State Attorney Ivan Kyazze apologized, admitting the state had repeatedly failed to deliver witnesses despite multiple adjournments since August 2024. The court warned the prosecution they could reinstate the case only if they were fully prepared to proceed.
The protest stemmed from the controversial arrest of FDC members in Kisumu, Kenya, which sparked outrage among the Katonga faction. FDC Chairman Amb. Wasswa Biriggwa had earlier written to the Kenyan High Commissioner demanding answers over the detention, calling it a breach of trust and sovereignty.
Meanwhile, trouble continues to brew for Ssemuju and six others facing fresh nuisance charges after a November 2024 protest. They allegedly obstructed traffic on Ssezibwa Road while planning another march to the Kenyan High Commission.
With key FDC figures like Dr. Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale still behind bars in Kenya, the political drama is far from over. All eyes now turn to February 3, 2025, when their case returns to court.
