Top Story: Magistrate Walks Out as NUP Supporters’ Court Session Descends Into Chaos
Kampala, September 7, 2025 — Drama unfolded at the Kawempe Chief Magistrate’s Court yesterday when Grade One Magistrate Damalie Agumaasiimwe abruptly walked out of a volatile courtroom session involving 33 National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters facing charges of malicious damage to property.
The disruption came amid a heated confrontation between Chief State Attorney Sharon Nambuya and the defense legal team, which includes prominent political figures Shamim Malende (Kampala Woman MP) and Erias Nalukoola Luyimbazi (Kawempe North MP). The clash was sparked by Nambuya’s demand for the defense team, led by lawyer Samuel Muyizzi Mulindwa, to present practicing certificates to verify their legal standing.
In response, the defense lawyers presented their credentials electronically—but then challenged Nambuya to produce official proof of her appointment to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Nambuya insisted her credentials had been published in the Uganda Gazette, deeming further proof unnecessary.
The courtroom tension escalated rapidly, prompting Magistrate Agumaasiimwe to declare the environment unfit for proceedings, describing it as a “market-like court.” She then walked out, citing a breach of professional decorum and expressing disappointment over the conduct of both parties.
As the packed courtroom watched in stunned silence, the magistrate summoned both the prosecution and defense to her chambers in a bid to restore order before proceedings could resume.
The case stems from March 2025 arrests related to violence during the Kawempe North by-election. Among the 33 accused are MPs Muwada Nkunyingi and Derrick Nyenko. Criminal summons were issued for four additional suspects who failed to appear in court.
The matter has been adjourned to October 21, 2025, pending resolution of the conduct complaints and to allow for smoother proceedings at the next hearing.
