Three co-accused in the case involving National Unity Platform (NUP) deputy spokesperson Alex Mufumbiro have pleaded guilty to the charges against them and are expected to begin negotiations with government over the next steps in their case.
The development emerged as Kawempe Chief Magistrate Doreen Ainembabazi set July 10 to rule on a bail application filed by Mufumbiro and the remaining accused persons.
The three accused, identified as Yasin Sserugo, Farouk Baruku and Edwin Sserunkuuma, reportedly admitted the charges during court proceedings.
Although journalists were not allowed inside the courtroom, sources indicated that the trio is expected to engage government in discussions following their guilty pleas.
During the hearing, Mufumbiro and his co-accused, through their lawyers, asked the court to review an earlier decision by Grade One Magistrate Damalie Agumasiimwe, who had denied them bail.
The defence argued that the ruling was legally flawed and should be reconsidered.
The defence also requested that the charge against Mufumbiro relating to alleged unlawful possession of ammunition be transferred to the High Court, arguing that the handling of the case had undermined confidence in a fair trial before the lower court.
Chief Magistrate Ainembabazi granted the application for the matter to proceed to the High Court, where a hearing date is expected to be fixed.
She also agreed to hear the renewed bail application and will deliver her ruling on July 10.
Defence lawyers maintained their criticism of the earlier proceedings, arguing that their clients are entitled to a fair and impartial hearing.
The case continues to attract public attention, with supporters of the National Unity Platform following proceedings closely as the legal battle now shifts to the High Court.
