Social Media Personality Mzee Magala Ordered to Pay Shs33m Over 2022 Shooting

Popular Ugandan social media figure Mzee Magala, legally known as Magala Balikyewunya, has avoided a lengthy prison sentence after a court ruling regarding a violent 2022 shooting incident.

Appearing before Luweero Chief Magistrate Esther Adikini, Magala was handed a Shs3 million court fine and instructed to pay Shs30 million in compensation to the victim, farm manager Andrew Akandwanaho. The high-profile case originated from a contentious land dispute in Nakaseke District.

According to the court directives, Magala must settle the Shs3 million fine and deposit an initial Shs10 million toward the compensation before securing his release from Butuntumula Government Prison. He has been granted a one-year grace period to clear the remaining Shs20 million balance, with a warning that defaulting could result in a three-year prison term.

State Prosecutor Racheal Kirabo had pushed for a deterrent sentence given the severity of the crime and the trauma experienced by the victim. Chief Magistrate Adikini noted that Mr. Akandwanaho sustained grievous injuries and requires substantial funds for medical treatment, including a CT scan.

Despite attempted murder carrying a maximum penalty of life imprisonment, the court favored leniency. Defense attorney Christopher Baluku successfully argued for a non-custodial punishment by highlighting Magala’s status as a first-time offender and his ongoing health battles, notably diabetes.

The sentencing concludes a tumultuous period for the content creator, whose Luweero home was recently destroyed in a suspected arson attack while he was on remand. Supporters and followers are currently monitoring the situation as his legal team works to fulfill the court’s financial requirements.

Read more details in the Daily Monitor report.