The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has withdrawn the case file involving Derick Ssenyonga, a bodyguard attached to Minister Aisha Sekindi, for further review, leading to the adjournment of proceedings at the Grade One Magistrate’s Court in Masaka.
Presiding Magistrate Selsa Biwaga on Tuesday adjourned the hearing after informing court that the file had been taken to Kampala by a State Attorney for re-examination.
Ssenyonga is accused of opening fire on four people, killing two and injuring two others on January 14, 2026, in Kyamulibwa, Kalungu District, just hours before the general elections.
The deceased were identified as Frank Miyingo and Gerald Katumba, while the injured are Yafeesi Ssenabulya and Isma Kasozi.
Court had been set to begin hearing the case on charges of negligent handling of a firearm, after earlier murder charges were controversially dropped—a move that drew concern from the complainants.
According to Hellen Nakeeya, a former NRM flagbearer for the Kalungu District Woman MP seat and the complainant in the matter, the DPP recalled the file to review concerns that the charges had been reduced under unclear circumstances.
Nakeeya said the development was communicated in court by Masaka State Attorney Abraham Akandeho, and she called for a transparent review to ensure justice is served.
The adjournment sparked emotional scenes in court, with relatives and friends of the victims expressing dissatisfaction over the handling of the case and the earlier release of the suspect on bail.
Some family members said his freedom poses a threat to their safety.
Among the affected families is that of Gerald Katumba. His widow, Mariam Nakyanzi—who is currently pregnant and caring for two children—appealed for justice and support as she struggles to cope with the loss.
One of the survivors, Yafeesi Ssenabulya, who sustained three gunshot wounds, told court that he is still battling the effects of his injuries and is unable to work.
He also appealed for justice.
Police records indicate that Ssenyonga, attached to the VIP Protection Unit (VIPPU), faces four counts related to the incident: two counts of causing death through negligence and two counts of causing injury.
The incident is alleged to have occurred on the eve of elections, as the victims were reportedly distributing campaign materials for Nakeeya, who was contesting against Minister Sekindi for the Kalungu Woman MP seat.
The case has been adjourned to May 27, 2026.