Activist charged over Uganda bombings

By CYRUS OMBATI

Human rights activist Al-Amin Kimathi (pictured) has been charged in Uganda in connection with the twin bomb blasts in Kampala, on July 11.

Kimathi, alongside Omar Awadh, a 37-year-old Kenyan businessman face 89 counts including terrorism, murder and attempted murder.

The prosecution alleges that on July 11, the suspects carried out terrorism attacks at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds, Ethiopian Village and Makindye Village.

Nakawa Court Chief Magistrate Deo Ssejjemba did not allow them to enter plea since their case could on only be tried at the High Court. He remanded them at the Luzira Prison until October 8.

Kimathi and co-accused were last week arrested together with lawyer Mbugua Mureithi. According to Uganda police, they were arrested while meeting in a hotel in Kampala. Mr Mureithi was, however, released after three days.

This brings the number of suspects held over the attacks that claimed more than 70 lives to 38.

Some human rights activists had condemned Uganda for holding Kimathi in an ungazetted safe house without trial.

The Kenyans were arrested at Niagara Hotel in a Kampala suburb. Apart from the two, the others were arrested on diverse dates over the bombing that killed football fans.

Uganda Police Spokesman Vincent Ssekate said on Saturday that they wanted the two to tell them what they know about the bombings.

The police also said they were studying a laptop that Kimathi had, which they claim, has information that could help build their case.