KAMPALA - Former Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka, her former deputy David Luyimbaazi, and Daniel Okello, ex-head of Public Health, were granted bail on Monday after being charged in connection with the tragic collapse of the Kiteezi landfill.
Each was released on a cash bail of Shs5 million, while their sureties were bonded for Shs100 million non-cash.
The accused are scheduled to return to court on November 26 for the trial's next phase.
The trio faces 57 charges of manslaughter linked to the deaths of over 30 people, who perished when the landfill collapsed earlier this year.
Represented by lawyers Fred Mwema, Julius Galisonga, and Alex Luganda, Kisaka and her co-accused arrived at the Magistrates' Court for their bail hearing.
Presiding Magistrate Beatrice Kaiza heard arguments from both sides, with the defense team presenting its case for bail.
Prosecutors argued against bail, expressing concerns that the accused might interfere with witnesses or evidence. However, the defense refuted these claims, insisting that no concrete evidence had been provided to substantiate such fears.
The court ultimately ruled in favour of granting bail, underscoring the principle that the accused are presumed innocent, that granting bail is at the court’s discretion, and that the trial is still in its preliminary stages.
The courtroom erupted with cheers from Kisaka's supporters when Magistrate Kaiza announced the decision.
Supporters wearing T-shirts emblazoned with Kisaka’s image gathered outside the court, chanting in support of the defendants and celebrating the defense team's efforts.
As part of the bail conditions, the court required each defendant to surrender their passport, effectively restricting them from leaving Uganda without permission.
This measure was taken to ensure compliance with the court’s jurisdiction as the case proceeds.
The defendants, who appeared visibly relieved, have faced suspension, arrest, and subsequent charges following a government report attributing the Kiteezi landfill disaster to alleged negligence on their part.
On November 26, they are expected to return to court, where the prosecution will present evidence against them.
The tragic Kiteezi landfill collapse continues to reverberate throughout the community, with calls for accountability and improved waste management practices to prevent future catastrophes.
