Two Men Return Home After 13 Years Incarcerated Without Trial

Jino Enzama, 62, and Angelo Adima, 61, were arrested in May 2013 in connection with a mob killing. They were among six suspects initially, but after 13 years of pretrial detention, they have finally been set free, though two other suspects remain in prison.

Their arrival in Domuru village was a moment of profound emotion, with hundreds of residents lining the roads, singing, dancing, and sweeping the path as the men traveled from Arua. Family members wept openly, embracing the men they had feared would never return.

Enzama, a peasant farmer who spent his time in Arua Prison, expressed gratitude for his protection and shared that he learned new skills like soap making and basket weaving. He hopes these skills will aid his reintegration into society. Adima, who was held in prisons in Kitgum and Kotido, spoke of the surprise and relief of finally returning home, urging for peaceful coexistence and an end to hatred.

Adima’s daughter, Aida Onziru, expressed her deep devastation during his imprisonment, noting the emotional and financial toll that forced her to drop out of school and marry. Her relief at his return was immense.

A thanksgiving Mass was held at Oleba Catholic Parish, presided over by Rev Fr Dominic Acema. He called for forgiveness and law-abiding conduct, highlighting the men’s return as a miracle and urging those who may have falsely accused others to seek repentance.

This case brings renewed attention to the issue of prolonged pretrial detention in Uganda, a problem affecting many suspects due to factors such as slow investigations, lack of legal aid, and systemic weaknesses in the justice system. Many individuals continue to languish in prison for years without their cases being heard.

This story was first reported by The Observer.