CMP Report, Kampala – October 7, 2024
Justice Ronald Kayizzi’s handling of the ongoing case involving protester Sammy has sparked widespread criticism, highlighting serious concerns over human rights abuses and judicial incompetence. Despite clear discrepancies in the evidence and testimony presented by the state, Kayizzi has repeatedly denied Sammy bail, further demonstrating his disregard for justice and human rights.
A Flawed Trial
Sammy, who participated in the #March2Parliament protests, was arrested by police officers who testified that his actions had “inconvenienced” others. However, when questioned in court, the officers could not provide any concrete evidence of complaints or even consistency in their own testimonies. One officer claimed Sammy was carrying protest posters, while the other insisted he was holding the Ugandan flag. Despite the lack of solid evidence, Justice Kayizzi remanded Sammy, further prolonging his detention without just cause
During the latest court hearing, new concerns arose regarding the treatment of Sammy. Although his case had been called, Sammy was not present in court as he had not yet been transported from Kitalya prison. When informed of this, Magistrate Kayizzi expressed confusion over why Sammy was still being held in Kitalya, stating that he had ordered a transfer to Luzira prison during the last hearing. Kayizzi further emphasized that he would not sign any remand forms for Kitalya, insisting that Sammy be held in Luzira instead. This statement has raised concerns that Kayizzi has already predetermined Sammy’s fate, with no intention of granting him bail in future hearings
A Judge’s Personal Bias
Beyond these judicial inconsistencies, Kayizzi’s personal approach to the case has added further fuel to the fire. When Sammy’s defense lawyers suggested scheduling the next court date for October 11, Kayizzi rejected the proposal, stating that his children were being confirmed on that day. The judge’s dismissive attitude toward the defendant’s personal circumstances – such as whether Sammy himself has children – underscores a lack of empathy and raises questions about his commitment to fairness in the judicial process
A Pattern of Human Rights Violations
This is not an isolated incident. Justice Kayizzi has been previously criticized for his role in politically charged cases, often siding with state interests over the constitutional rights of citizens. His actions reflect a broader pattern of judicial complicity in human rights abuses in Uganda. As evidenced by his treatment of protest cases like Sammy’s, Kayizzi’s court decisions often seem designed to silence opposition and dissent against the government
This case is emblematic of a deeper problem within Uganda’s judicial system, where judges like Kayizzi routinely deny bail without valid legal justification, prolong detentions, and fail to hold state actors accountable for violating citizens’ rights.
A Call for Accountability
Sammy’s case sheds light on the urgent need for judicial reform in Uganda. Human rights organizations have condemned Kayizzi’s actions, calling for greater transparency and accountability within the judicial system. As the trial continues, pressure is mounting for the courts to respect the rule of law and ensure that justice is served.
The eyes of both the Ugandan public and the international community are now on Justice Ronald Kayizzi, as this case raises significant questions about the future of human rights and judicial independence in the country.