Businessman Abdul Kiyimba and Son Charged with Incitement to Violence, Granted Bail

The Law Development Centre Court in Kampala witnessed the charging of businessman Abdul Kiyimba and his son, Hamuza Kiyimba, with incitement to violence. Despite the gravity of the charges, the duo has been granted bail following their appearance before Grade One Magistrate Martins Kirya on Monday.

The charges stem from an incident on November 24, 2023, at Gadaffi Mosque, Old Kampala Parish Central Division, Kampala District. The prosecution alleges that Kiyimba, the former Mayor of Kyengera Town Council, intended to intimidate and annoy Zziwa Ashiraf and officials of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC).

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Furthermore, Kiyimba and his son are accused of inciting violence against Mufti Sheikh Shaban Ramathan Mubajje during Juma Prayers at Old Kampala Mosque. The prosecution contends that Kiyimba advanced towards Mubajje, shouting, “Where is Mubajje? I want Mubajje,” urging the Muslim congregation to rise and attack him over allegations of selling Muslim land.

Presenting their case for bail, the accused, through their lawyer Swabur Marzuq Abdul, maintained their innocence. Swabur argued that Kiyimba, being of advanced age with community responsibilities and facing health issues, deserves bail. Additionally, substantial sureties were offered to assure the court.

Despite the prosecution’s objection, citing concerns about potential interference with investigations, Magistrate Kirya granted bail. The accused were each required to pay sh1 million in cash and were sternly warned to maintain peaceful conduct while on bail.

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The case is scheduled for mention on January 29, 2024. Kiyimba’s legal troubles originate from his involvement in protesting a Commercial Court order authorizing the sale of UMSC properties to recover sh18.9 billion. The protest, which occurred on November 16, 2023, led to Kiyimba’s arrest, as he sought redress for a purported fake land transaction.

The controversy involves businessman Justus Kyabahwa’s compensation claim for land in Ssembabule District, resulting in legal complexities and ongoing disputes within the Muslim community. The situation remains tense, with unresolved legal issues contributing to the charged atmosphere surrounding the case.