National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters, including Olivia Lutaaya (center), appear in the military court dock, facing charges of treachery and unlawful possession of explosive devices, in Kampala, Uganda, October 2024. The 16 supporters were sentenced to three months and 22 days despite their guilty plea, sparking concerns over the treatment of opposition supporters.
The group, arrested four years ago, initially denied charges but later admitted to committing offenses between November 2020 and May 12, 2021, in various places, including Jinja, Mbale, and Kampala Central. They were found with 13 improvised explosive devices, exclusively reserved for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces.
The supporters claim they were misled into committing the offenses and now seek amnesty from President Yoweri Museveni. However, NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi alleges military coercion.
This case raises concerns about the treatment of opposition supporters and the use of military courts to try civilians. Uganda has a history of arbitrary arrests and excessive force during elections, restricting freedom of assembly and expression.
The 16 supporters, led by Muhydin Kakooza, appeared before Brig. Gen. Freeman Mugabe, chairperson of the General Court Martial. Their sentencing comes after a lengthy remand period.
The supporters were initially charged with unlawful possession of explosive devices and treachery. Their plea change came during a closed-door session at the General Court Martial. Kyagulanyi’s allegations of coercion highlight the contentious nature of the trial.
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