The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has strongly refuted allegations of misconduct in handling the arson case involving Mityana Deputy Resident District Commissioner (D/RDC) Prossy Mwanjuzi.
The allegations, circulated by a social media platform Swift Daily News, claim undue influence in the decision to drop charges against suspects linked to the attack on Ms. Mwanjuzi’s residence on June 1, 2024.
In a widely shared article titled, “Am Receiving Bloody Threats After DPP Withdrawing Charges Against Goons Who Wanted to Kill Me – Mityana RDC Cries Out,” the outlet suggested that the ODPP had acted improperly in its decision-making process. The ODPP has since clarified the legal and evidentiary basis for its actions.
The arson attack targeted the home of Ms. Mwanjuzi in an incident that shocked the local community. Lukwago Budala, suspected of involvement, was arrested and simultaneously charged in a separate murder case alongside two others, Namudu Safina and Kyazze Deo. Both cases were carefully reviewed by the ODPP following formal complaints submitted by representatives of the accused.
According to the ODPP, a meticulous examination of the arson and murder case files revealed that the evidence was insufficient for prosecution. The prosecution’s foundation rested on suspicion, which, despite its strength, could not meet the evidentiary threshold required under Uganda’s legal system.
“Suspicion alone, however compelling, cannot justify a criminal prosecution,” the ODPP stated. Based on these findings, the murder charges were dropped, and the cases were officially closed.
The ODPP also addressed allegations implicating Hon. Godfrey Kiwanda and Hon. Simeo Nsubuga in exerting pressure on Assistant DPP Alex Bagada, Head of the Homicide Division. The office categorically denied these claims, emphasizing that the decision was guided solely by constitutional principles and legal standards.
“The decision to terminate the charges was based purely on an impartial evaluation of the evidence. Any insinuation of external influence is completely unfounded,” said Jacquelyn Okui, Public Relations Officer for the ODPP.
The ODPP reaffirmed its dedication to upholding justice and ensuring fairness in its proceedings. It emphasized that its decisions are guided by the rule of law and that any claims of impropriety undermine public confidence in Uganda’s legal institutions.
“We strongly reject these baseless allegations. The ODPP remains committed to delivering justice impartially and transparently,” Okui concluded.
The office urged the public to rely on verified facts and trust the integrity of Uganda’s judicial processes, which prioritize justice for all stakeholders.
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