President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on November 22, 2024, pardoned 19 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who were arrested in connection with violence in November 2020 ahead of the 2021 presidential elections.
The group had been facing charges in a court-martial and sentenced on charges of treachery and unlawful possession of ammunition.
“In exercise of the power vested in me under Article 121(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, 1995 as amended, and on the advice of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, I hereby grant a pardon to the individuals listed below for the offenses of treachery under Section 129(a) of the UPDF Act, Cap 330, and unlawful possession of ammunition under Section 3(1)(2)(a) of the Firearms Act,” President Museveni stated.
The pardoned individuals include; Olivia Lutaaya, Rashid Sseggujja, Robert Rugumayo Christopher, Muhuyadin Kakoza, Simon Kujambu, Abdul Matoovu, Ronald Kijjambu, Mesach Kiwanuka, Ibrahim Wandera, Asubat Nagwere, Stephen Musakaru, Paul Muyanguzi, Sharif Matovu, David Mafabi, Livingston Katushabe Kigozi, Swaibu Katabi, Siraji Obalayai Mudebo, Joseph Muganza, and Stanley Lwanga.
Before receiving the presidential pardon, they had served three years and eight months in jail.
Brig Robert Freeman Mugabe, the chairman of UPDF martial court, considering their time in detention and their status as first-time offenders on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, sentenced them to three months and 22 days in prison after pleading guilty to the offenses.
Balaam Barugahara, the State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, praised the President’s decision, describing it as an act of compassion.
“Your compassionate decision gives them a second chance at life. We shall support the rest to get themselves out of danger whenever they approach our office for help. Thank you, and may God bless you,” Minister Barugahara said.
However, he also emphasized the ongoing efforts to support the rest to get themselves out of danger whenever they approach his office for help.
