Forensic Experts Summoned in Case of Journalist Accused of Spreading False News About First Lady

The Law Development Centre (LDC) Grade One Magistrate’s court has issued official witness summons for the investigating officer and forensic experts involved in the case against journalist and human rights activist Arnold Anthony Mukose.

Mukose is currently facing criminal charges related to broadcasting false news and transmitting false distress signals. The prosecution alleges that between January and March 2026, Mukose and other yet-unidentified individuals used the online Alternative Digital Channel to unlawfully publish claims that First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni had passed away.

During court proceedings, prosecution witness detective David Ilukut testified about recovering various electronic devices and documents from the accused, including a Dell laptop, a mobile phone, and communication modems. However, during cross-examination by defence counsel, the detective acknowledged that specific technical details of the recovered electronic devices had not been properly documented in the search certificate.

The case has experienced several legal twists, including a brief dismissal for want of prosecution in August 2026 before being reinstated in October when Mukose returned to reclaim his confiscated property at the Old Kampala police station.

Magistrate Joanita Muwanika adjourned the hearing to December 1, 2026, when the newly summoned forensic experts and the lead investigator are expected to present further testimony before the court.

For more details on this ongoing trial, read the full report on The Observer.