High Court in Masaka has handed down a verdict sentencing city Business man Kato Kajubi, witchdoctor Moses Makumbi and his assistant Dennis Kabuye to life imprisonment for their involvement in the sacrificial killing of a juvenile.
The judgment, pronounced by Judge Victoria Nakintu Katamba, marked the culmination of a trial that laid bare the horrifying details of the crime committed against Passy Mirembe in Kayugi village, Nyendo Mukungwe Division, on October 23, 2017.
State Prosecutor Noah Kunya highlighted the gruesome manner in which the girls limbs were chopped implored court for either death
However, defence counsel Alexander Lule Nkima mounted a spirited defense on behalf of Makumbi, emphasising his client’s advanced age and extensive familial responsibilities.
Lule urged the court to consider a lighter sentence, stressing Makumbi’s role as a provider for his four wives and 71 children
In esponse to the defense’s arguments, Judge Nakintu summoned the parents of the deceased to present their case.Moses Karangwa, the grief-stricken father, beseeched the court to compel Makumbi to surrender his daughter’s remains, particularly her head, for a dignified burial.
“Court should order this witch doctor to surrender parts of our daughter,” Karangwa implored, his voice trembling with emotion.
As Judge Nakintu delivered the verdict, she revealed the horrifying details of Mirembe’s demise, recounting how her limbs and internal organs were ruthlessly removed. Despite the defense lawyer’s announcement of intent to appeal the court decision, citing dissatisfaction with the court’s ruling, the verdict was met with a sense of closure and relief from the parents and residents.
“Now our daughter can rest in peace,” Moses Karangwa, his eyes glistening with tears.
Kato Kajubi was in 2012 convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment for hiring Umar Kateregga, a witchdoctor and his wife Mariam Nabukeera to slaughter 12-year-old Joseph Kasirye in a ritual sacrifice.
