By witnessradio.org Team
Kiryandongo – Uganda – the Seven lawyers who were rounded up and arrested by anti-riot police while interviewing victims of a forceful eviction that has resulted into displacement of over 35,000 people, have been charged and released on police bond. The arrest took place at Busaana-Kimogola village, Kakooko parish, Mutunda Sub county, Kiryandongo district on June, 30th, 2020.
The forceful evictions are being carried out by three (3) multinational companies namely; Agilis Partners, Great Season and Kiryandongo Sugar Limited without court actions.
Lawyers Kaijuka Aaron, Christine Marunga, Joan Balyerali, Brian Tuwayenga, Eric Bajole, Muhindo Morgan and Nafula Elizabeth were charged with two offenses including disobeying lawful orders and negligent act likely to spread infection of diseases.
Also the seven community members arrested alongside lawyers have been charged with same offenses and released on police bond respectively. Community members are; Namanya Samwiri Paulo, Tumusiime Sylvester, Sanyu Eriya, Byaruhanga Rogers, Nsubuga Ahmada, and Zironda Simon among others.
The arrest came at a time when lawyers defending the communities were preparing to close their submissions ahead of hearing of lawsuits filed against evictors.
Before and during the Covid-19 lockdown, the 3 multinational companies were dragged to court; and Masindi High Court, indicated that it would issue a hearing date on notice.
