New disturbing allegations have emerged against Levi Amarakutunga, the Kitagwenda District Councillor for Persons with Disabilities, who is the prime suspect in the murder of four-year-old Trinah Ainomugisha.
Community members have accused Amarakutunga of sexual abuse and coercion. One victim, who spoke on condition of anonymity, recounted a harrowing encounter with Amarakutunga.
"He found me on the road one evening and offered me a lift. After I got into his car, he started touching my belly and moustache while sticking out his tongue. I was terrified," he said.
The victim said Amarakutunga later drove him to his home, locked the car doors, and continued making inappropriate advances.
"He touched my private parts, and I panicked. Just then, my friend called me for our usual drinking spree. Amarakutunga overheard the conversation, and I used the chance to break the window, forcing him to open the door. He warned me not to tell anyone," the victim said.
Another alleged victim claimed he was taken to Amarakutunga’s home in Nyabihoko Parish, Buhanda Sub-county, after being told he would receive prayers for wealth.
However, he said the councillor attempted to coerce him into sexual acts.
"He tried to convince me, but I resisted. When I told him to stop, we disagreed. He then warned me never to speak about what had happened," the victim said.
Kabujogera councillor Innocent Kizza confirmed that similar reports about Amarakutunga had circulated in the community.
"Many victims have remained silent out of fear," Kizza said.
Kitagwenda Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Nicholas Nuwagira also acknowledged awareness of the accusations. "We have heard the claims and are investigating the matter," he said.
Amarakutunga and three of his workers were arrested on Monday in connection with the suspected ritual murder of Ainomugisha.
They are being held at Kitagwenda Central Police Station as investigations continue.
The allegations come amid Uganda’s strict Anti-Homosexuality Act, signed into law by President Museveni in May 2023. The law imposes life imprisonment for same-sex relations and the death penalty for "aggravated homosexuality," which includes sexual abuse involving minors, disabled persons, or acts committed under coercion.
Once a celebrated gospel singer known for songs like Abyeitu nibikorwa Mukama and Nyentsya Yaawe, as well as a director at Nyabihoko Parents Primary School, Amarakutunga's reputation has been tainted by these grave accusations.
As police continue their investigations, the people of Kitagwenda await justice for Ainomugisha and those who claim to have suffered at Amarakutunga’s hands.