By Ronaldo Kalangi
Kampala, Uganda: Former Forum For Democratic change President Col Dr KizzaBesigye while appearing in Rukungiri Magistrates court alongside current FDC boss Patrick Amuriat ,Secretary for Mobilisation Ingrid Turinawe Rukungiri Councillor Innocent Tashobya, Moses Byamukama and Fred Asiimwe on charges of inciting public during Togikwatako protests in 2017, requested the court to dismiss the case because it has no merits for trial.
“Your worship, we are tired of moving long distances to come and attend cases where our accusers, the State, keeps asking for adjournments. If the prosecution doesn’t have evidence they should withdraw the charges instead of wasting our time,” Besigye roared.
Later Ingrid, Nicholas Atuheirwe and over 40 others appeared again on another case of inciting public while organising prayers and Thanksgiving for Edson Kakuru (killed during Togikwatako in 2017) and other victims of the struggle. Hearing failed to take off because prosecution claimed witnesses who are all police officers have since been transferred to other stations outside Rukungiri, saying they need more time to summon them.
Chief MagistrateMoses Kule ordered state prosecutor Richard Muhereza to ensure witnesses are in court on the next sitting so that hearing of the case can commence. Kule said he will not entertain trial by ambush saying it’s a 1900 method which cannot ensure justice for the accused. Mark Mwesigye and Ainembabazi Ambrose were defence lawyers. Both cases have been adjourned to 21-22nd, March 2019.
