Court Martial to try Ex-MP Kipoi’s alleged accomplices over treason

KAMPALA

Prosecution at the Makindye based Military Court will try the five UPDF soldiers who were jointly charged with former MP Tonny Kipoi Nsubuga over treason.
The junior soldiers; Sgt. Albino Okeng, Sgt. Yunusu Lemeliga, L/Cpl Rogers Mweru, L/Cpl Adams K. Mwaka and Pte Ijosiga S. Dodola are on remand since 2013.
The move by prosecution follows a delayed extradition process to have Mr Kipoi transferred from Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to stand trial before the General Court Martial (GCM).
During an earlier court session, prosecution led by Capt. Fredrick Kangwamu had told court that investigators are in final stages of producing Mr Nsubuga before the court.

Capt. Kangwamu had asked for extension arguing that the extradition if completed would give the state chance to bring the accused person to stand trial with the rest of the accused persons.
But a source at the court said prosecution would proceed without Mr Kipoi because the delayed process would delay delivery of justice for the five accused persons as required by law.
Army publicist, Lt. Col. Paddy Ankunda said Mr Kipoi’s extradition process was being handled by the foreign affairs ministry.
When contacted, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. James Mugume said he needed time to consult on the update of the matter.
It is alleged that Mr Kipoi, the former Bubulo West legislator was recruiting personnel from Ugandan security as well as Congolese rebels belonging to COGAI, a rebel group based in Bunia in Ituri, Democratic Republic of Congo.

In the treachery case, Mr Kipoi is alleged to have held a meeting with DR Congo rebels and UPDF soldiers in a guest house in Kabarole District last year with intention to arm them and overthrow the Uganda government.
In February this year, the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) withdrew treason charges against the group.