A Ugandan court has granted bail to three former top bosses of the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA)—Dorothy Kisaka, David Luyimbazi, and Daniel Okello—who were arrested and Charged with manslaughter and negligence following the Kiteezi dumpsite collapse on August 10, which resulted in the deaths of at least 34 people and injuries to many others in Wakiso District.
Each defendant has been released on bail set at 5 million shillings, with their sureties required to post non-cash bonds of 100 million shillings.
The trio is scheduled to return to court on November 26 for the next phase of their trial.
They face a total of 57 charges related to the tragic incident.
Represented by lawyers Fred Mwema, Julius Galisonga, and Alex Luganda, Kisaka and her co-defendants appeared at the Magistrates’ Court for their bail hearing. During the proceedings, presiding Magistrate Beatrice Kaiza heard arguments from both the defense and prosecution.
The prosecution opposed bail, citing concerns about potential witness tampering. However, the defense countered that no substantial evidence had been presented to support such claims.
Ultimately, the court ruled in favor of granting bail, reaffirming the principle of presumption of innocence and noting that the trial is still in its early stages.
The courtroom erupted in cheers from Kisaka’s supporters upon the announcement. Many supporters, clad in T-shirts bearing her image, gathered outside, celebrating the decision and the defense’s efforts.
As a condition of their bail, the court mandated that each defendant surrender their passport to prevent them from leaving Uganda without permission, ensuring compliance with the court’s jurisdiction as the case unfolds.
The defendants have faced suspension and arrest following a government report that attributed the Kiteezi landfill disaster to alleged negligence on their part. On November 26, they are expected to return to court, where the prosecution will present its evidence.
