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

The High Court of Uganda has sentenced Daniel Kisekka to 35 years for the 2015 murder of prosecutor Joan Kagezi. Kisekka confessed under a plea bargain, revealing a larger conspiracy. His conviction comes nearly a decade after Kagezi’s assassination shocked the nation. Further investigations into remaining suspects are ongoing, as the case highlights challenges in achieving justice for high-profile crimes.

In a landmark ruling, the International Crimes Division of Uganda’s High Court has convicted Daniel Kisekka to 35 years in prison for his role in the 2015 murder of Joan Kagezi, an Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions who was killed in front of her children. This conviction, announced today, comes nearly a decade after Kagezi’s shocking assassination startled the nation, highlighting the challenges in pursuing justice in such high-profile cases.

The 47-year-old Kisekka, a former corporal in Uganda’s military, confessed to participating in the premeditated murder orchestrated by an unnamed individual. Kisekka entered a guilty plea as part of a plea bargain, which ultimately led to this significant sentence. His prison term will be reduced to 34 years, accounting for the year he has spent in detention.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that the murder was not only a premeditated act but also part of a conspiratorial plan that involved multiple accomplices. Kisekka, along with Kibuuka John and others, played varying roles in the execution of the crime. Kagezi was shot twice in the neck while sitting in her parked car. The attack occurred in broad daylight, under the watch of her children, which weighed heavily in the court’s sentencing.

Kisekka admitted to serving as backup during the shooting, orchestrated by Kibuuka and Massajjage, who allegedly carried out the act. Each conspirator had reportedly received a UGX 500,000 advance, with a promise of USD 200,000 upon completion.

This conviction marks a critical development in what has long been regarded as one of Uganda’s most distressing murders. The case had remained unsolved for years until Kisekka’s unexpected arrest in 2023 on unrelated charges. His subsequent confession was a turning point, providing law enforcement with leads that had once gone cold.

Kisekka’s history with the law dates back to 2008, involving previous charges of robbery and desertion from the military. His prolonged evasion of justice was reportedly aided by rituals conducted by a witch doctor, which he believed protected him from arrest.

While delivering the sentence, the High Court panel highlighted several aggravating circumstances of the case, including the presence of Kagezi’s children during the brutal attack. The court’s panel, consisting of Justice Michael Elubu and others, expressed concern over the calculated execution of the murder and the utter disregard for human life demonstrated by the conspirators.

Thomas Jatiko, who represented the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, expressed satisfaction with the ruling, noting its significance. Jacquelyn Okui, the ODPP’s Public Relations Officer, emphasized the institution’s commitment to justice, stating that the conviction demonstrates their resolve to pursue justice despite the time lapse.

At the time of her murder, Kagezi was leading prosecutions in numerous notable terrorism and war crimes cases. Her death not only drew national outrage but also raised serious alarms regarding the safety of legal professionals in Uganda.

Investigations into the remaining suspects involved in Kagezi’s murder continue. The successful conviction of Kisekka serves as a strong message against organized crime, reinforcing the principle that no individual is beyond the reach of justice, irrespective of military connections or perceived mystical protections. Furthermore, this case highlights the effectiveness of plea bargaining as a tool for dismantling criminal operations.

The High Court’s conviction of Daniel Kisekka for the murder of Joan Kagezi represents a key moment in Uganda’s judicial system, addressing past injustices and emphasizing accountability. Kisekka’s plea deal and testimony may aid in the ongoing investigations of other suspects involved, possibly paving the way for further arrests and a stronger legal stance against organized crime. This case reaffirms Uganda’s commitment to justice, irrespective of time elapsed or individual status. Kagezi’s assassination remains a poignant reminder of the risks judicial officers face, impacting public perception of safety within the legal field.

Original Source: softpower.ug