Summary:
Senior Resident State Attorney Julie Nanjunjju informed the court that the case was bailable since the accused had presented substantial sureties, all of whom were close relatives.
KABALE: The Kabale Chief Magistrates Court has granted a non-cash bail of Shs 3 million to Rutare Naturinda Amon, the LC2 Chairperson of Kitojo Parish in Rwamucucu Sub County, Rukiga District. Naturinda is facing charges of assault and causing grievous harm.
Last Friday, Naturinda was remanded to Ndorwa Government Prison after being charged with two counts of assault and causing grievous harm during President Yoweri Museveni’s rally at Rushebeya Playground on February 14, 2025.
Through his lawyer, Humphrey Rugambanengwe of Rugambanengwe & Company Advocates, Naturinda applied for bail, presenting three substantial sureties. Rugambanengwe argued that his client is a peacekeeper and denied the allegations. The sureties included Ohireirwe Brian, 40, Naturinda’s biological brother from Nyangorogoro village, Kitojo Parish; David Beyendeza, 59, his uncle; and Niwagaba Peter, 27, his nephew. All had letters of recommendation from their respective LC1 chairpersons.
Senior Resident State Attorney Julie Nanjunjju informed the court that the case was bailable since the accused had presented substantial sureties, all of whom were close relatives. However, she noted that the offence involved violence, and the complainants’ lives could be at risk if the accused is released.
In his ruling, Chief Magistrate Derrick Byamugisha affirmed Naturinda’s right to apply for bail and granted him a non-cash bail of Shs 3 million. Each surety was also bonded at Shs 5 million non-cash. Byamugisha warned Naturinda against interfering with the complainants or engaging in any violent or unlawful acts. The case was adjourned to Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Speaking after the ruling, Counsel Rugambanengwe welcomed the court’s decision and attributed the case to political rivalry in Rukiga District. He stated that the matter was now in the hands of the court to determine.
CUE IN COUNSEL RUGAMBANENGWE……ON BAIL…….RR/ENG//
Meanwhile, one of the victims, Peter Niwahereza, a resident of Rushebeya in Rwamucucu, alleged that Naturinda and an accomplice, Ronald Kitariko who is currently on the run assaulted him for not supporting Rukiga District Woman MP Caroline Kamusiime Muhwezi. Another complainant, Innocent Mugarura, said he was attacked while trying to rescue Niwahereza from Naturinda and his colleagues.
The complainants have asked the court for protection, citing threats to their lives.
CUE IN COMPLAINANTS……ON THE ISSUE…..RR//
