The Uganda Prisons Services has today not produced any suspects in all Kampala and Wakiso District Courts for hearing of various criminal cases, Uganda Radio Network has learnt.
This website has visited courts in Kampala City Centre that host criminal sessions and found that there was no business going on regarding old files for accused persons who are already on remand and were expected to be produced before the Courts of law today.
These courts visited include the Anti Corruption Court, City Hall Court , High Court, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court and the Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court where our reporter established that criminal business is on standstill with some relaxation at court.
However, registration of new criminal cases was ongoing.
Some sources who are not allowed to comment in the media because they are not authorized to speak on behalf of the Uganda Prison Services said it was part of the precautionary measures because they anticipated a protest in Kampala.
“Much as I am not sure why courts are not deployed, it could be a necessary precaution for ensuring safety of Prisoners and staff which is our cardinal role,” said the source.
The source added: “It is reckless to deploy Courts when the security is being threatened by the possible outcome of the protest if it happens.”
When contacted, Prisons Spokesperson Frank Baine said they advised the OCs of different prisons not to take suspects to courts of law to avoid being volatile.
“We have not operated in Kampala and Wakiso courts today. But other places which are less volatile, people have gone to court”, said Baine. Asked if they have feared the anticipated protests against corruption, Baine denied this.
“We have not feared protests,” he said. “But we have taken precaution. You know ours is to protect and secure safe custody of offenders. Even if you have guns, you don’t walk to the lions saying that I will shoot you. Avoiding conflicts is much better.” Baine told Uganda Radio Network on phone.
He said however that they notified the stakeholders and they understood them.
According to Baine, only Wakiso and Kampala courts have been affected but elsewhere, they are working normally.
Kampala District alone has 11 buildings that host various criminal courts.
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