Ex-Mbabazi aide acquitted

Pte Emmy Katabaazi (centre) celebrates after he was acquitted at the general court martial in Makindye yesterday. photo BY ABUBAKER LUBOWA

Lira- Former aide to former prime minister Amama Mbabazi yesterday said he was grateful that the case against him before the General Court Martial had come to an end.

“I can only thank the Almighty God for revealing the truth and the government and all the people who were involved in proving the allegations against me,” said Pte Emmy Katabazi shortly after he was discharged by the court in Makindye.

“I am a UPDF soldier and I will continue to serve the army and abide by the law,” Pte Katabaazi, who was flanked by his family members, added.

The soldier, who is attached to Internal Security Organisation (ISO), was released after spending nine months on remand over charges in connection with absence from duty and conduct prejudicial to good conduct and discipline.

He had appeared before the court martial chairperson, Lt Gen Andrew Gutti, for further hearing of prosecution witnesses, but the State led by Lt Ambrose Baguma said he had instructions through the Director of Prosecutions of the UPDF to discontinue the proceedings.

“I hereby present a Nolle prosequi (be unwilling to pursue) on the basis that the State has lost interest in the case. We hereby withdraw both counts and pray that court may be pleased to discharge the accused person,” Lt Baguma told court.

His submission compelled court on advice of the judge advocate, Lt Col Gideon Katinda, to order for his release.
“The withdrawal of charges is in the view of the Nolle prosequi entered by prosecution. You are hereby released,” said Lt Gen Gutti, warning that the release will not act as a bar to any subsequent proceedings.