Daniel Kisekka Sentenced to 35 Years for Joan Kagezi’s Murder

Daniel Kisekka has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for his involvement in the 2015 murder of Joan Kagezi, a prominent legal figure. The court found Kisekka guilty of a premeditated conspiracy, with financial incentives tied to Kagezi’s assassination. This ruling highlights ongoing efforts to tackle organized crime and represents a significant development in a case that had gone cold for years before Kisekka’s arrest reignited investigations.

In a notable development from the International Crimes Division of the High Court, Daniel Kisekka has been sentenced to 35 years for his role in the 2015 murder of Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Joan Kagezi Namazzi. This guilty plea comes nearly ten years following her assassination, an event that deeply shocked Uganda and raised serious concerns about the safety of judicial officers.

Kisekka, 47, a former corporal in the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces, accepted a plea deal, which allows for a reduction of his prison term, ultimately leading to a 34-year sentence due to a year spent on remand. The court heard that Kagezi’s death was not random; it was part of a premeditated plan motivated by financial incentives, hatched by an undisclosed individual and executed by multiple co-conspirators, including Kibuuka John and Massajjage John.

During the attack on March 30, 2015, Kagezi was shot twice in the neck while inside her vehicle in Kiwatule, witnessed by her children. Kisekka admitted to facilitating the attack, serving in a backup role while others executed the shooting. Each conspirator was reportedly promised UGX 500,000 upfront, with a substantial reward of USD 200,000 for the completed murder.

This conviction is a crucial breakthrough in what has been branded one of the most harrowing cases of criminal violence in Uganda. The investigation had seemed to stall for years until 2023, when Kisekka was apprehended in Luwero District on unrelated charges. His subsequent confession re-energized the case and helped in piecing the details together.

Kisekka has a substantial criminal history, dating back to 2008, which includes charges of aggravated robbery. He had managed to evade capture for some time, reportedly thanks to supernatural rituals intended to protect him from law enforcement consequences.

The High Court underscored the aggravated nature of the crime, particularly highlighting that Kagezi’s children were present at the scene. The judges, led by Justice Michael Elubu, expressed stern disapproval of the actions taken by Kisekka and his accomplices, citing their egregious disregard for human life.

In response to the ruling, Thomas Jatiko, an Assistant Director in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), represented the state. Meanwhile, Jacquelyn Okui, the ODPP’s Public Relations Officer, praised the conviction as evidence of unwavering commitment to justice, stating it demonstrates the office’s dedication over the years, regardless of the elapsed time.

At the time of her assassination, Kagezi was a prominent figure, leading high-stakes prosecutions in terrorism and war crimes cases. The national and international uproar following her murder brought critical attention to the threatening atmosphere surrounding judicial personnel. Remaining suspect cases against Kibuuka, Massajjage, and Nasur are still ongoing. Kisekka’s conviction serves as a stern reminder of the rule of law and the fight against organized crime, emphasizing that military affiliations or mythical protections cannot shield anyone from accountability.

In conclusion, the sentencing of Daniel Kisekka represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for the high-profile murder of Joan Kagezi. This case highlights the importance of legal proceedings in addressing organized crime and ensuring accountability, regardless of an individual’s background or connections. As the trials for co-conspirators continue, the judiciary’s actions reassure the public that the rule of law will prevail in Uganda, emphasizing the need for justice in the face of heinous crimes.

Original Source: softpower.ug