State denied me speedy trial - Tumukunde

Former spy chief accuses the state of infringing on his rights and demands to be acquitted.

Former spy chief Brig. Henry Tumukunde has asked the Military Court Martial to acquit him over charges of spreading harmful propaganda during a radio talk show, accusing the state of violating the Constitution on a speedy trial.

Through his lawyers led by MacDusman Kabega, Brig. Tumukunde argued that prosecution infringed upon his right to speedy trial when they failed to prosecute the matter within a short time, as provided for in the law.

“It is the duty of the court to ensure timely trial but in the circumstances his constitutional right was violated, we pray that court rules in his favour,” Mr Kabega said, appealing to court to enforce its powers to enforce the law.

Mr Kabega made the arguments while submitting documents of law and previous cases handled by superior courts for the court to consider in acquitting Brig. Tumukunde over charges in connection with the radio talk show that took place eight years ago.

Brig. Tumukunde who turned 52 years yesterday appeared before a fully packed court chaired by Brig. Fred Tolit amidst tight security of the Military Police, for hearing of final submission by the state.
Prosecutor Capt. Fred Kangwamu, however, asked the court to convict Brig. Tumukunde, saying they had proved their case through three witnesses to warrant a conviction.

“We pray that court finds the accused person guilty as charged because the witnesses indicated that he appeared on Radio One and without authorisation,” he argued in reply to Brig. Tumukunde’s submission.
Brig. Tumukunde denies the charges.
The case was adjourned to March 14 for the Judge advocate to advise the court before the final judgement.

editorial@ug.nationmedia.com