Journalists Barred from Jamilu Mukulu Co-Accused Plea Bargain Hearing

Journalists arrived routinely at the International Crimes Division (ICD) of Uganda’s High Court to report on proceedings but were swiftly turned away. ICD Registrar Juliet Harty Hatanga explained that the plea bargain hearings for co-accused in the Jamilu Mukulu Alilabaki terrorism case were closed to the public due to national security reasons.

At least five suspects were present to seal agreements with the prosecution, alongside some relatives. Hatanga confirmed media access for subsequent open sessions, including Tuesday’s appearance by Mukulu as the trial progresses.

This marks another instance of restricted media coverage in plea bargains for this case. Earlier, some defendants secured deals for reduced sentences, resulting in 17-year terms. Judicial staff reportedly expressed frustration over leaks that alerted journalists and families.

Mukulu, arrested in 2015, faces charges of leading the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in attacks across districts like Mayuge, Bugiri, and Kampala from 2011-2015. Allegations include murders of clerics Sheikh Yunus Abubaker Mandanga and Sheikh Abdul Khadir Muwaya Ductoor, plus the 1998 Kichwamba Technical Institute massacre.

The trial, overseen by Justices Michael Elubu, Dr Andrew Bashaija, Susan Okalany, and Steven Mubiru, holds quarterly one-week sessions. Prior testimony identified co-accused like Ali Kabambwe and Ibrahim Kyessa in specific crimes; Kyessa later took a plea deal for 17.5 years.

Medical evidence confirmed victim gunshot deaths and Mukulu’s sound mental state post-arrest. The case resumes openly on Tuesday.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)