Category: Daily Monitor

A family dispute fueled by alcohol turned deadly on December 28, 2025, when a 37-year-old man died after a prolonged fight with his brother that ended with both tumbling down a deep valley.

The deceased has been identified as Michael Mujanamana, while his brother, 40-year-old Pascal Dusabe, has since been arrested and charged with murder, according to ASP Elly Maate, the Kigezi Region Police spokesperson.

The incident occurred in Mpundu Cell, North Ward, Chahafi Town Council, Kisoro District.

‘The trouble began around 21:00 hours at Chuhumba Trading Centre, where the two brothers got into a misunderstanding while drinking local alcohol. A brawl broke out but was quickly separated by onlookers,’ ASP Maate said.

He added: ‘Mujanamana left the bar around 22:00 hours, claiming he was going home, but instead ambushed his brother at their father’s residence. When Dusabe arrived home about 40 minutes later, the fight resumed.’

The fight lasted nearly 30 minutes, with another brother, Ronald Rukundo, attempting to intervene.

‘I was trying to separate them the whole time, but the deceased became very hostile and couldn’t stop fighting. In the process, they both rolled down the valley of about 30 meters deep, where Michael knocked his head on a rock and died instantly,’ Rukundo told Monitor.

Police arrived promptly after being alerted and processed the scene.

‘The scene was visited, processed, and documented by D/ASP Babiiha Johnson and his team,’ Maate added.

Witness statements have been recorded, and the body was taken to Kisoro Hospital mortuary for postmortem.

Maate confirmed that inquiries are ongoing, urging the public to avoid resolving disputes through violence and to refrain from excessive alcohol consumption.

Authorities maintained that the incident raised concerns over alcohol-related violence in Kisoro, highlighting the dangers of domestic disputes escalating into fatal confrontations.

As fireworks and concerts prepare to mark the New Year across the world, Ugandan churches are offering a different kind of celebration, welcoming 2026 with prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

Here is a look at how churches intend to usher believers into the New Year:

Candlelit masses and overnight services

From midnight candlelit masses to all-night praise services, national prayers, and prophetic gatherings, congregations are emphasising hope, peace, and thanksgiving over entertainment ahead of the January 15, 2026 General Election.

Religious leaders who spoke to Monitor on Wednesday said the season is a time to commit the year ahead to God, particularly as the country approaches a politically sensitive period.

At Rubaga Catholic Cathedral, preparations are in full swing. Assistant Cathedral Administrator Rev Fr John Mary Walugembe said ‘the church will hold two closing Masses on December 31, starting at 9:00 pm at Rubaga Cathedral and 8:00 pm at Nalukolongo Catholic Sub-Parish.’

On January 1, three masses will be celebrated at Rubaga at 7:00 am, 8:00 am, and 10:00 am, led by Archbishop of Kampala, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere.

All Saints and SDA Celebrations

All Saints Cathedral, Nakasero, will host an overnight crossover Anglican service on December 31, led by Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stephen Samuel Kaziimba.

A 10:00 am service on January 1 will be led by Assistant Bishop of Kampala Diocese, Jackson Frederick Baalwa, according to Cathedral Provost Very Rev Canon Dr Rebecca Nyegenye.

The Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Church is holding crossover services across its branches, including Najjanankumbi and Kampala Central, starting at 9:00 pm on December 31, 2025.

All-night praise across evangelical church networks

Watoto Church Ministries will celebrate across 18 branches nationwide, hosting all-night praise and worship from 9:00 pm to 6:00 am, said Pastor Julius Rwotolnyo.

Worship House Ministries, led by Pastor Wilson Bugembe, will hold prayers at Nansana, Busabala Primary School, Kiwatule-Kyambogo Primary School, and Mercy Church Wakiso-Mende.

Phaneroo Ministries International is hosting a night prayer event from 5:00 pm at Naguru, featuring Nigerian gospel singer Ada Ehi. Phaneroo founder Apostle Grace Lubega said it is expected to attract believers from Africa, Europe, and America. ‘This is a year of increase without burden.progress without struggle,’ she said.

Other gatherings across Uganda

Other gatherings include the House of Prayer Ministries Vision Night at Makerere Kikoni, Mutundwe Christian Fellowship at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, and the Victory Christian Centre 24th Passover Festival in Lubowa, featuring gospel artist Mercy Chinwo.

Brother Ronnie Ministries will hold crossover services at Holy City Church, Entebbe. Zoe Ministries will begin 2026 on January 6 with the ‘True Spirit of Prophecy Service’ at Kigo-Lweza.

Faith, unity, and national cohesion

Religious leaders are dominantly emphasizing prayers for peace, tolerance, and unity during the crossover services, signaling that Uganda’s New Year coincides with preparations for the January 15, 2026 General Election.

Police in Tororo District are investigating the suspected murder of a 17-year-old female student, Precious Achieng Lucy, whose body was discovered near her home in Pajwenda Town Council.

According to a December 30, 2025press statement issued by Bukedi South Regional Police Spokesperson IP Moses Mugwe, the deceased, a resident of Pajwenda North Zone, was reported missing by her mother, Juliet Abbo Odongo, a 40-year-old businesswoman.

‘Preliminary investigations indicate that on the night of December 29, 2025, the deceased left her mother’s restaurant at Pajwenda Trading Centre carrying two chapatis and a cup of tea and headed home. Later, her young brother, Moses Odell Junior, followed the same route and found her lying in a pool of blood,’ IP Mugwe said.

The boy alerted their mother, who rushed to the scene and discovered the girl’s body in an incomplete house next to their residence.

‘A team of uniformed officers, homicide detectives, Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO), and a Canine (K-9) unit visited and documented the scene. Statements were recorded from relevant witnesses,’ police added.

Police reported that Achieng’s body was found naked, with a forehead injury. The K-9 unit tracked a scent to the house of suspect Henry Tego, a 27-year-old resident of Pajwenda North Zone.

Three suspects have been arrested to assist investigations and they include Tego; Stephen Ochieng, 40, a businessman from Pajwenda Central A Zone; and Derrick Tingu, 22, a bar attendant, also from Pajwenda Zone.

‘Further inquiries revealed that the deceased’s home is located next to the residence of suspect Tego,’ Mugwe said.

The body was conveyed to Tororo Main Hospital Mortuary for postmortem examination.

IP Mugwe condemned the act of violence and assured the public that investigations are ongoing.

‘We are committed to establishing credible evidence that will lead to prosecution and deter future crimes,’ he said.

Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, highlighting concerns over the safety of young people in the area.

At least 25 lives are lost daily in Uganda to murders and road crashes, according to the 2024 annual police crime report.

The touchy question of whether family members of Uganda Peoples Congress party (UPC) founding father, Apollo Milton Obote, should work with President Museveni and his NRM party government has once more split the family.

The latest trouble pits Obote’s heir and first son, Tony Akaki, against Gender, Labour and Social Development minister Betty Amongi, also the wife of Akaki’s younger brother and UPC party president Jimmy Akena.

Akaki, in an undated letter accuses Amongi of using the family home to campaign for President Museveni and asks her to vacate the family home with immediate effect.

But Amongi has shot back saying the rest of the brothers that Akaki claimed were part of the decision to eject her have denied any role in drafting the letter.

Amongi insists she is not going anywhere as long as she and Akena remain in love.

But Akaki said Amongi has lost the moral fabric of being a family member and must vacate the Obote family house. He said Amongi cannot use the Obote family home to campaign for Mr Museveni who in 1981 launched a brutal five-year guerilla war against Dr Obote’s government after he accused the former president of influencing the rigging of the 1980 elections organised by the seven-member Military Commission led by Paulo Muwanga, with Museveni as his deputy.

Akaki, in a blistering tone, wrote: “I have seen and read with much disdain and disgust, that Betty Amongi is campaigning for the continuation of the military dictatorship from President Obote’s home in Lira District.

“This is unacceptable, particularly after insulting former First Lady Mama Miria Obote in March, claiming that President Obote’s wife has failed to uphold the Obote legacy and that she Betty Amongi is the one to preserve and protect the Obote name. Betty Amongi and her team of NRM goons and sympathisers should vacate President Obote’s home forthwith,” the letter stated in part.

Amongi is the incumbent Member of Parliament for Oyam County South in the 11th Parliament and was elected on the Opposition UPC party ticket.

“As Obote’s eldest son and heir, with the tacit approval of President Obote’s approval sons, namely my brothers, we call for Betty Amongi to stop operating from stusingwire@ug.nationmedia.com our home. You are not welcome in any of President Obote’s homes,” the letter further adds.

But only Akaki appended his name on the letter.

The sons of Obote include Akena, Akaki, Edward Engena Maitum, and Benjamin Obote.

Mr Akaki for much of the time has had a frosty relationship with minister Amongi. Shortly after she was appointed a minister in 2016, Mr Akaki accused Amongi of being a mole planted by President Museveni to destroy the Obote family and his legacy.

However, while the two have squared off, the rest of the family members have remained guarded in their responses, opting not to get drawn into the fight. Akena, who was reached for a reaction over the the latest lat family squabbles, refused to be drawn into the matter, but questioned whether the contention was deserving of any sensible answers. We were ere unable to get responses from the other Obote sons that Akaki said were part of the decision to expel Amongi.

But Amongi yesterday said the rest of family far members have disowned the letter and said Akaki wrote it as an individual.

“I am writing to address the above issue, authored by Mr Tony Akaki, the elder son of my father-in-law, Dr Apollo Milton Obote. After consulting with other family members, I have confirmed members, I have confirmed that they [had no] involvement in crafting the letter,” she stated in a reply to queries to this publication.

The minister said her role as the wife of Akaki’s younger brother Akena has never been in doubt and that she remains committed to loving her family and will rise above what she termed as Dove what petty issues being raised by her brother in-law.

“My husband has not expressed any dissatisfaction regarding my role or presence in that home. Therefore, I kindly urge Mr Akaki to separate personal family matters from political viewpoints. I aspire to rise above the petty issues that may divide us.”

“The political decisions I make are guided by careful analysis and a commitment to the future of Uganda rather than personal grievances. This will be my first and last time to address this matter publicly,” she said.

Ms Amongi said the family welcomed her as their own and Akaki cannot wake up one morning and say she is not welcome in her own home when her husband has not done so.

“In light of this context, I wish to assert my position as the wife of Honourable Jimmy Akena, Mr Akaki’s brother. I was welcomed into this home by my husband, and it is my firm belief that Mr Akaki does not possess the authority to evict me, as I am not under his jurisdiction, she said.

UPC responds

Mr Fred Ebil, the UPC party secretary general, said the party cannot be drawn into family squabbles, but remains committed to mobilising support for its members in the forthcoming parliamentary and local council elections.

UPC did not field any presidential candidate after Mr Akena was disqualified by the Electoral Commission (EC) over contravention of internal party constitutional.

“As a party, we respect family boundaries and cannot get involved in members’ domestic issues. Our work is just to mobilise for our flagbearers at parliamentary and local council levels and we are hopeful that we shall win these coming elections at those levels,” he said.

Akaki had in his missive warned Amongi against using the family name to advance her own interests and asserted the family would not tolerate that.

“Amongi must stop infecting the Obote family with her reputation of mismanagement, alleged corruption and the corrosive use of access to NRM’s patronage and abuse of public resources for personal aggrandisement, all of which go against the values my father stood for and built UPC Con on,” he said.

Akaki said Dr Obote was very categorical right from 1986 when Museveni took over power from the late Gen Tito Okello Lutwa, who a few months earlier, had ousted Obote in a military takeover.

Akaki said Dr Obote’s message in October 1998 to the [Apollo Milton Obote] AMO Club International Conference held in London clearly stated: “The mission of the UPC since January 26, 1986 has been and shall continue to be the removal of the dictatorship which the NRA proclaimed on that day”.

“The struggle continues to free Uganda from the NRM dictatorship. We the Obote family strongly condemn all forms of human right abuses, including illegal detentions, torture, violation of property rights and the draconian manner in which the state has been repressing opposition political parties,” he added.

Akaki said nothing good comes out from a government that thrives on corruption, abuse of power and grave human rights record and that the Obote family condemns such kind of government.

“We condemn in no uncertain terms the economic mismanagement, blatant theft, corruption, nepotism, political patronage and influence peddling which have more or less become the official policy of the NRM as exemplified by the high-profile corruption scandals, such as the “Mabaati Scandal” involving massive diversion and theft of government-procured iron sheets (mabaati) meant for some of Uganda’s most vulnerable communities in the Karamoja region,” Mr Akaki said.

He also cited other corruption allegations like the controversial Shs6 billion the minister allegedly demanded from the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) to conduct her projects, including activities which Akaki said were already being carried out by the Fund, and the 2018 Bamugereire commission that he claimed found Amongi culpable of grabbing land belonging to the Departed Asians Custodian Board.

“She was grilled before a commission of inquiry into land matters chaired by Justice Catherine Bamugemereire where she was asked to resign her position as a minister in public interest. We the Obote family distance ourselves from such a despicable person and want her to vacate the Obote home,” he said.

Amongi rebuts claims

But Amongi denied the allegations and said Akaki’s writing is prompted by self- interest in total disregard for the national interests. She said the same family that is currently working in President Museveni’s regime cannot claim to disown her, when the same is a beneficiary of Museveni’s benevolence. Ms Amongi also claimed one of Obote’s sons is currently a staff member at State House, operating from Okello House in Kampala.

“Furthermore, Reverend (sic) Bishop Edward Engena Maitum, another son of Dr Obote, publicly endorsed and campaigned for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during the 2011 Presidential election at Kololo Grounds. Additionally, Mama Miria Obote, the former First Lady, hosted President Museveni at her residence on Impala Avenue, Kololo, in June 2012. Since then, their relationship has fostered significant support from the President, including the renovation of the residences of the former president in Kololo and Lira, and compensation for the army’s occupation during the family’s exile,” she said.

Ms Among wondered how someone who is staying in a house renovated by the President can go around and accuse her of campaigning for the President.

“The Kololo residence, which Mr Tony Akaki currently occupies, is one such property that has been renovated by President Museveni, “Ms Amongi added.

Background

Ahead of the 2016 elections, the UPC under the Akena faction reached an informal agreement with President Museveni to support his presidential bid. UPC at the time did not field any presidential candidate. President Museveni confirmed the alliance, which was reportedly signed by NRM party secretary general Richard Todwong on behalf of the NRM during a press briefing at Baralege State Lodge in Otuke District in November 2015.

Consequently, Betty Amongi and other UPC members members were appointed to key Cabinet positions and diplomatic missions in the new Museveni-led government. But the decision to support Museveni created a big rift within UPC, with those in the Olara Otunu faction calling Akena a mole planted by Museveni to kill UPC. Akena had previously denied any such pact in response to Daily Monitor inquiries about the matter in 2015, saying UPC was not for sale but its members were free to choose who to support. At the time, Olara Otunu supported Amama Mbabazi who was the Go Forward alliance candidate, while Akena said he was more concerned with the future of the country, a reason why he opted to support Museveni.

“On a personal note, I am looking at the future of this country. We want a peaceful transition but Museveni must be part of it. And constitutionally, he will not stand in 2021, he will be above 75 years,” Mr Akena had maintained.

But ahead of the 2021 General Election. Parliament amended the age limit cap to allow President Museveni run as many times as he would choose without any age limit. Mr Akena at the time said UPC candidates would participate in the 2016 General Election with the party identity, but not politically married to another party.

Latest fallout

But Mr Akena recently had a bitter fallout with President Museveni when he was blocked by the EC from contesting for presidency in the 2026 election. Mr Akena blamed his woes on President Museveni. Mr Akena in an interview with Daily Monitor at his home in Akokoro in November 11 said his candidature would have upset Mr Museveni’s plans of ruling for a longer period.

“I had created a pathway which was going to upset or put the 50 plus 1 equation into jeopardy, and that would have changed the whole dynamics of the politics and also changed the dynamics of the interactions which we’re going to have,” Mr Akena told this publication.

He added: “And those who are fearing and concerned about what they’re trying to create transition, are fearing that if other players are able to establish themselves among the electorate, it will upset their plans in the future.”

Obote ruled Uganda as president twice, from 1966 to 1971, after he, as executive prime minister, deposed then ceremonial President Sir Edward Mutesa. But Obote was in turn overthrown by the army commander, Idi Amin Dada, who was later deposed by militants backed by the Tanzanian Peoples Defence Forces in 1979. Obote bounced back as president in 1980 after the disputed elections that forced president Museveni to launch the 1981 to 1986 brutal war in Luweero Triangle.

Uganda is sending 200 students to pursue PhD studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, thanks to new scholarships secured by the government.

Uganda’s Ambassador to South Africa, Mr Paul Amoru Omiat, confirmed the development, stating the scholarships are for Ugandan nationals pursuing doctoral studies. Some of the successful applicants in the first cohort will begin their studies in February 2026.

“This is a major achievement by the Kampala administration in supporting its citizens to attain higher education and in building a skilled and knowledgeable workforce for the country,” Mr Amoru said.

The announcement was made during the graduation ceremony of Dr. Ismael Ochen Ochen, who completed a PhD in Monitoring and Evaluation at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa.

Dr Ochen Ochen plans to work closely with the Lango Cultural Institution to promote education in the sub-region, which he believes will help reduce conflicts and crime among youth.

“I plan to work closely with Lango Cultural Institution to place strong emphasis on education within the sub-region. This will help reduce conflicts within communities, especially among the youth, who often resort to violence and criminal behaviour due to a lack of guidance and opportunities,” Dr. Ochen Ochen said.

Prof. Constant Okello Obura, a lecturer at Makerere University, advised Dr. Ochen Ochen to use his academic training and research skills to contribute to community development.

The Paramount Chief of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, emphasized the importance of education and urged cultural leaders to support education initiatives without discriminating on the basis of religion. He also highlighted the need for the government, cultural institutions, and the church to work together to combat drug abuse and crime among young people.

Tekwaro Lango, the Lango Cultural Institution, has supported over 1,000 vulnerable students to attain formal education and vocational skills.

The institution is expected to benefit from the new scholarships, with Mr Amoru pledging to work closely with the office of the Paramount Chief to mobilize and support children who wish to benefit from the education scholarship opportunities.

“My office is also working together with the royal household and the office of King Mswati III, who leads the Kingdom of Eswatini, to ensure that the cultural leaders of the Lango Sub-region are facilitated to travel abroad and gain exposure,” Mr Amoru said.

Farmers under the Uganda National Farmers’ Federation (UNFFE) have said they plan to raise 12 million votes for President Museveni in the next two weeks. The farmers said they have more gains to protect than any other sector in the country.

Ugandans are set to head to the polls on January 15, 2026, to elect a President and Members of Parliament. Mr Museveni, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate and incumbent, is seeking a seventh consecutive term that will extend his rule to 45 years.

Dr Dick Nuwamanya Kamuganga, the UNFFE president, says over the next few days, they will utilise the bottom- up structure, from village farmer associations (VFAs) upward, to execute a ‘surgical’ household-to-household and farm-to-farm strategy to draw support for the President.

‘We are activating a 17-day intensive marathon to mobilise 12.5 million farmers across Uganda’s four regions who voted for President Museveni and all NRM party flag bearers,’ Dr Nuwamanya said during their 33rd annual general assembly at their offices in Kampala on Monday.

He added: ‘Our unique doctrine encompasses polling station taskforces, and has activated a Farmer Polling Station Taskforce (FPST) of 15 farmers per polling station to serve as final mile mobilisation agents and strategists.’

Dr Nuwamanya, who is also the chairperson of Mbarara District Farmers’ Association, says there are 4.5 million farmers associated with the UNFFE.

He adds that they will target three voters from each household, bringing the total number of potential voters to 13.5 million.

‘We believe that farmers have more gains to protect and appreciate than any other sector, including those introduced by the former National Agricultural Advisory Services (Naads), the current Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), the Parish Development Model (PDM), and the Four-Acre Model,’ Dr Nuwamanya, a dairy farmer, said.

Dr Nuwamanya also announced that the UNFFE will launch its first Annual Farmers’ Summit at the Kololo Independence Grounds on January 11, with President Museveni expected to preside over the function.

He added that the summit is a strategic platform for engagement on issues that affect the farmers, and also serve as a dialogue platform between the farmers and Executive to synchronise agricultural policy, wealth creation and accountability in the country.

Dr Nuwamanya said UNFFE is also moving towards institutional self-reliance through the acquisition of a $10m (Shs36 billion) Farmers’ Tower. The 16-floor tower will serve as a national centre for coordination, training and policy engagement in agriculture and to generate sustainable office rental income to support farmer programmes and protect their assets.

Mr Rogers Wangoda, the chairman of Sironko Farmers’ Association, says the district has commodity enterprise groups, agro-based groups, farmer heads referred to as CBF, and modern farmers under the Four-Acre Model, that they intend to mobilise to support the President.

‘We shall rally those, plus parish and sub-county groups, among others, to raise the 12.5 million votes for President Museveni,’ he said.

NRM last week claimed to have 14 million members on the updated National Voters’ Register that the Electoral Commission (EC) will use in the 2026 General Election. Mr Richard Todwong, the party’s secretary general, said the figure was arrived at by comparing the National Identification Numbers (NIN) of party members with those on the updated National Voters’ Register.

At least 21.6 million voters are expected to turn up for the January 15 polls, 3.5 million voters more than the 18.1 million voters who were in the 2021 National Voters’ Register.

However, National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, said they received information that the regime had done multiple registrations of people considered their supporters, largely using the NRM register, PDM beneficiaries, and some government workers, among others.

‘They placed such individuals at different polling stations but within short distances of each other, so that they engage in multiple voting,’ he said.

EC chairperson Simon Byabakama earlier asked Ugandans who doubt the Commission’s credibility to organise free and fair elections to table evidence to support their claims.

‘Can you prove that we cannot conduct a free and fair election because the person who appointed me the commissioner ends up being a (presidential) candidate?’ he asked.

He added: ‘You show us evidence. But when you talk generally without specifics, then I also cannot give you clear answers. The bottom line is the law, which says all candidates are treated equally, and we do that.’

Opposition stalwart Col (rtd) Kizza Besigye and his aide, Obed Lutale, yesterday refused to take plea to amended treason charges, prompting the High Court to adjourn plea-taking to allow the prosecution to regularise the indictment.

The dramatic proceedings unfolded before Justice Emmanuel Baguma at the Criminal Division of the High Court, shortly after the prosecution presented an amended indictment correcting defects earlier flagged by the defence.

When asked to plead to the charges of treason and misprision of treason, the accused declined, prompting the presiding judge to adjourn proceedings.

‘I am really horrified by the way things have been going,’ Dr Besigye told court.

Justice Baguma attempted to persuade him to take plea, assuring him of an opportunity to speak later if he complied.

‘I will give you a chance to say something later if you plead,’ the judge said.

However, Dr Besigye remained defiant, arguing that he could not meaningfully plead without the guidance of his lawyers.

‘We have spent here the whole day. How do you want me to plead when you have cut out the advice of my lawyers? I am not in a position to plead without the advice of my lawyers,’ he said.

He added: ‘This is persecution, and I am really tired of being charged with treason that never comes.’

Following his refusal, Justice Baguma formally entered a plea of not guilty on Dr Besigye’s behalf.

‘I have recorded a plea of not guilty,’ the judge ruled.

Lutale similarly declined to plead. When prompted by court, he simply responded, ‘No comment,’ and remained silent when subsequent charges were read.

Co-accused Capt Denish Oola Oyaa also declined to plead immediately, telling court: ‘I can’t plead now unless I consult with my lawyers.’

All three accused remained mute on the remaining counts, leading the court to enter not-guilty pleas for them.

Justice Baguma then appointed three court assessors John Musana, Richard Okello and Sarah Babirye to sit with the court during the trial. When asked whether he had any objections to the assessors, Dr Besigye responded curtly: ‘Do what you want.’

An assessor is a member of the public with no legal training and is provided for under criminal trials and always gives their unbinding opinion to court before it proceeds to deliver its final verdict.

‘I’m fed up’

Moments after court fixed the matter for hearing, Dr Besigye loudly protested from the dock.

‘I am fed up with persecution,’ he roared, drawing attention in the packed courtroom.

The judge directed the assessors to submit their personal details to the Registrar of the court to facilitate the trial process.

He then adjourned the matter to January 21, 2026, for scheduling.

Earlier, prosecution, led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Thomas Jatiko, informed court that it was ready to proceed following the filing of an amended indictment.

‘The prosecution has filed an amended indictment to the effect that the correct name of (A3) third accused is Capt Dennis Oola Denish Oyaa, which is the name put on record by his lawyer,’ Mr Jatiko said.

He added that the amendment also corrected the division of the court, clarifying that the case is before the Criminal Division of the High Court and not the International Crimes Division.

‘The amended indictment is signed by Jatiko Thomas and dated December 29, 2025, and the Registrar of the court has signed and dated it December 30, 2025. We have been served with the same and we are ready to proceed,’ he told court.

However, defence lawyers raised sharp objections, accusing the prosecution of procedural impropriety and undermining the fairness of the trial.

Defence lawyer Fredrick Mpanga questioned how the amended indictment could be dated a day before the court order directing its amendment.

‘Pursuant to a court order made this morning, the indictment has been amended. However, despite the order having been made today, December 30, the amendment signed by Mr Jatiko is dated December 29, a day before the direction to amend,’ Mr Mpanga argued.

He said his clients were instructed to raise concerns that the sequence of events suggested coordination between court and prosecution.

‘The instructions from Dr Besigye are that if court directed the amendment to be made today after 11am, it cannot be explained that it is dated before the order,’ he said.

Mr Mpanga further objected to the notice of trial, arguing that it violated Section 28 of the Trial on Indictments Act, which requires at least 14 days’ notice before trial.

‘The notice indicates the accused would be tried today at 12:30pm, yet counsel was served at 12:50pm. That cannot be reasonable notice,’ he submitted.

Mr Erias Lukwago also echoed the objection, arguing that speed should not defeat fairness.

‘Even though the Constitution mandates a speedy trial, the speed must be reasonable. Serving notice after the time fixed for trial defeats the spirit and purpose of the law,’ Mr Lukwago said.

Counsel for Capt Oola, Simon Busagwa, associated himself with the objections, adding that while the indictment had been corrected, the summary of the case still bore incorrect particulars.

‘The Constitution requires that an accused understands the case against them. The particulars were corrected in the indictment but not in the summary,’ Mr Busagwa said, urging court to grant the State 14 days to fully regularise the documents.

In response, Chief State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka dismissed the objections, insisting that the amendments were not fatal and had long been anticipated.

‘We had already put court on notice that we would amend the indictment regardless of whether there was a court order or not,’ Mr Birivumbuka said.

He argued that the accused had been before the High Court for months and were fully aware that the case was coming up for plea and trial.

‘The committal proceedings and repeated court appearances constitute sufficient notice. The defence has always known this case was for hearing,’ he submitted.

In a brief ruling, Justice Baguma said he would deliver a detailed decision later but directed that plea taking proceed in the interest of justice.

‘I have carefully listened to the submissions. Court allowed the amendment under Section 52 of the Trial on Indictments Act to clarify the particulars of A3,’ he ruled.

‘For the interest of justice and time, I now direct that the accused take plea, and they will be given an adjournment on when the hearing will start,’ Justice Baguma concluded.

Police have issued strict guidelines to venues planning fireworks displays during New Year celebrations, warning that no display should exceed five minutes.

The police said the regulations, often ignored in previous years will this time be strictly enforced to minimise accidents, injuries, and property damage during the festivities.

The police spokesperson, Mr Rusoke Kituma, said only applicants formally cleared by police will be allowed to conduct fireworks displays, all of which must be handled exclusively by licensed blasters in accordance with the Explosives Act.

‘We don’t want a situation where anyone thinks they can set off their own and must only be handled by licensed professionals,’ Mr Kituma said.

He added that counterterrorism officers will escort fireworks materials to approved venues and supervise displays alongside respective district police commanders (DPCs).

Mr Kituma said in previous years, some venues displayed fireworks for more than 10 minutes, a practice police said will not be tolerated this year.

‘There is a reason we put it at five minutes. It is enough time to give people an enjoyable experience while reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, or property damage,’ he said.

Among the approved venues are Mengo Lubiri, Lugogo Cricket Oval, Freedom City, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Speke Resort Munyonyo, Mestil Hotel, Golden Castle Hotel in Hoima, Meka Eco Resort, Bunyoro Kitara Diocese, Catalyst Hillside Resort Bomba Hotel in Kitgum. The police also approved several venues in Busia, Iganga, Pader, Kalangala, Butaleja, Mayuge, Bugweri, Bushenyi, Bukedea, Kaliro, Soroti, Mbale, and Sironko.

Police also directed that all fireworks events must be advertised in advance through electronic and print media, particularly local FM radio stations and newspapers, to alert surrounding communities.

‘Area DPCs reserve the authority to stop any fireworks display that does not comply with the guidelines. Any unused fireworks must be handled strictly by a person holding a valid explosives or blasters licence,’ Mr Kituma said.

Police further warned against the burning of tyres during celebrations, saying the practice is illegal and damages public infrastructure. This year, an estimated 2,000 venues, including hotels, gardens, entertainment spots, and places of worship have been cleared to host fireworks displays.

Police said New Year’s Eve celebrations, often marked by fireworks at churches, bars, and public venues, will be closely monitored nationwide. Under the guidelines, organisers are required to conduct on-site safety assessments, provide at least 10 functional fire extinguishers, and establish emergency mechanisms to interrupt firing in case of danger.

No spectators, parked vehicles, or occupied buildings are allowed within fireworks blasting sites, and smoking or open flames are prohibited within 50 feet of fireworks materials. Police also warned that persons under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications are barred from approaching display areas.

Rakai and Kyotera districts in central Uganda on December 30 emerged as critical opposition battlegrounds after National Unity Platform (NUP) leader and presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, drew a show of support that disrupted normal economic activity and rattled long-standing ruling party dominance.

From Lwamaggwa playground in Rakai District to the streets of Kyotera town, shops, markets and bars closed as residents gathered along roadsides to see Kyagulanyi’s convoy, despite heavy security deployment.

The scenes appeared to mark sharp political shift in areas traditionally considered National Resistance Movement (NRM) strongholds.

Addressing supporters at Lwamaggwa playground, Kyagulanyi urged voters to focus on leadership change rather than repeated campaign pledges, arguing that Uganda’s persistent social challenges stem from governance failure.

‘I don’t need to remind you about bad roads or hospitals without medicine,’ Kyagulanyi said, adding: ‘You live this reality every day. The solution is to vote for change. Vote for me and all NUP flag bearers so we can fix this country together.’

Residents interviewed linked the momentum behind NUP to frustration with nearly four decades of NRM rule.

Joseph Kayiira, a resident of Bulanga Village in Rakai District, said the mobilisation reflected growing public fatigue.

‘We have endured suffering for close to 40 years,’ Kayiira said, adding: ‘We are tired of empty promises. This time, we want a new leadership that understands our problems.’

In Kyotera town, traders temporarily shut their businesses to follow the campaign. Jonex Mukasa, a local businessman, described Kyagulanyi’s candidacy as a symbol of political renewal.

‘Having Kyagulanyi as our next president is a dream. When leadership changes at the top, everything else will follow. Development will finally reach ordinary people,’ he told Monitor.

NUP’s challenge extends beyond the presidential race, with parliamentary candidates gaining traction in the region. Grace Nalubega, the party’s candidate for Rakai District Woman Member of Parliament, used the rally to criticise infrastructure deficits, particularly road construction.

‘Rakai has less than ten kilometers of tarmac,’ Nalubega said, disputing recent claims by President Museveni that roads in the district were in good condition.

She added: ‘Our people deserve better. Change is the only way we can bring real development.’

Political mobilisation along the campaign route-from Lwamaggwa to Kibanda, Kakuuto and Kalisizo-displayed a sense of growing confidence among opposition supporters, according to Tom Kasumba, a trader in Kyotera.

He noted that ‘generational disconnect with the current leadership was driving support for Kyagulanyi.’

‘Museveni ruled when we were children. This generation needs a leader who understands youth struggles. That leader is Kyagulanyi,’ he argued.

During a campaign stop on December 19, President Museveni defended his record, saying the people of Masaka and Kyotera, who suffered wars in 1972, 1979, and 1985, have now enjoyed four decades of peace under the NRM.

He pledged that in the next term, government works would include the Mutukula-Kyotera-Kalisizo-Masaka and Kyapa-Kasensero roads, as well as a bridge linking Buganda and Nyangoma in Kagera.

Museveni also announced plans to expand Presidential Zonal Skilling Hubs from 19 to 39.

On wealth creation, Museveni said development had been a priority since he moved to Rwakitura in 1970, emphasizing that ‘cows eat grass, not tarmac,’ and that “wealth must come first.”

As campaigning intensifies ahead of the January 15, 2026 General Election, Rakai and Kyotera are shaping up as test cases for NUP’s ability to erode the NRM’s long-held political grip in the area.

Kyagulanyi is among seven opposition candidates aiming to end Museveni’s hold onto power.

Past election

During the 2021 General Election, President Museveni secured 47,288 votes (57.83 percent) in Rakai District, while his closest challenger, Kyagulanyi, garnered 33,267 votes (40.69 percent).In neighbouring Kyotera District, however, Museveni was defeated by Kyagulanyi, who won 49,132 votes (64.84 percent) against the incumbent’s 25,598 votes (33.78 percent).

The Banyala cultural leader ( Ssabanyala) Maj (rtd) Baker Kimeze, has advised his subjects to abide by the Electoral Commission and the Chief of Defence Force Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s warning not to hang around polling stations after casting their vote.

Addressing the media at his palace in Kyerima village, Kitimbwa sub-county, Kayunga District on Wednesday, Kimeze emphasised that voters should not linger around polling stations, as all candidates have polling agents to protect their interests.

“I want to appeal to all my subjects not to provoke security by crowding and refusing to go home after casting their ballot. I want to assure all voters that they should rest assured that there will be enough security to safeguard their votes and the media will be around, so any suspicion that there are intentions to steal them is uncalled for,” Kimeze said.

He dismissed the “vote protection” agenda as an excuse for losing, stating that those promoting it will use it as a reason for their loss in the forthcoming general election.

Despite constitutional restrictions on cultural leaders engaging in partisan politics, Kimeze openly urged his subjects to support President Museveni and all NRM flag bearers in the elections.

“This time round, President Museveni should win in Kayunga District with over 90 percent because he has demonstrated that he is a visionary leader. If it was not President Museveni who reinstated our cultural institution, we would still be under Mengo establishment which had suffocated us for long,” he said.

Kimeze also encouraged his subjects to attend President Museveni’s campaign rally in Kayunga District on Friday, January 2, and to grow high-value crops like vegetables and fruits to increase their household incomes.