Uganda’s Top Prosecution Office Denounces False Allegations in High-Profile Murder Case
KAMPALA, December 12, 2025 — The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has issued a forceful statement condemning what it describes as “false and baseless allegations” made by a defendant in a prominent murder trial, warning that such tactics threaten the integrity of the judicial process.
The press release addresses claims made by Mr. Abdul Semujju, also known as Minana, during a December 10 hearing at the Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court. Semujju, who is charged with the 2015 murder of former Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Joan N. Kagezi, accused Chief State Attorney Mr. Birivumbuka Richard of participating in torture operations.
“The ODPP takes exception to these outlandish, false, and misleading statements made in the sanctity of a court of law,” the statement reads. It categorically denies the allegations, asserting they are “without any factual basis” and are “calculated to assassinate the character of a public officer who is only doing his professional job.”
The ODPP clarified that its prosecutors engage with accused persons solely within official court proceedings and are mandated to ensure fair and transparent prosecutions in accordance with the law. The office expressed deep concern that the allegations, which have circulated on social media and news platforms, represent a deliberate attempt to intimidate its officers and distort public perception of their role.
“Attempts to undermine Prosecutors… through misinformation, personal attacks, or intimidation tactics not only endanger the individual prosecutors but also threaten the integrity of the prosecutorial process itself,” the statement continued.
The office vowed that its prosecutors “will not be deterred from carrying out their duties by any underhanded tactics” and called on the public to reject such methods. It emphasized a commitment to managing all cases “fairly, transparently, and in accordance with the law.”
This strong rebuke comes amid the ongoing, closely watched trial for the assassination of Joan Kagezi, a senior prosecutor who was handling a case linked to international terrorism at the time of her killing. The ODPP’s statement underscores the heightened tensions surrounding the proceedings and its determination to shield its personnel from external pressure.
The office concluded by urging the media and public to rely on verified information to preserve trust in the justice system.
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