NUP: magistrate storms out as Kawempe court descends into chaos

Proceedings at the Kawempe Chief Magistrate’s court were thrown into disarray after grade one magistrate Damalie Agumaasiimwe stormed out of a heated session involving 33 supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP) who are accused of malicious damage to property.

The chaos erupted after a bitter clash between chief state attorney Sharon Nambuya and the defense lawyers, each accusing the other of unprofessional conduct. The dispute began when Nambuya demanded that a team of seven defense lawyers, led by Samuel Muyizzi Mulindwa, produce their practising certificates to prove they were legally entitled to appear in court.

The defense team, which included Shamim Malende (Kampala District Woman MP) and Erias Nalukoola Luyimbazi (Kawempe North MP), responded by presenting their certificates electronically.

They then turned the tables on Nambuya, demanding that she, too, present an official letter to prove her appointment to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). A visibly angered Nambuya argued that her appointment had been published in the Uganda Gazette and was therefore public knowledge.

The defense lawyers countered, insisting that her claim required evidence, just as she had demanded proof of their qualifications. Frustrated by the escalating exchanges,  Agumaasiimwe declared that she could not preside over what she described as a “market-like court” and walked out.

She noted that such a lack of decorum was uncharacteristic of the bar, a profession expected to be honourable. The packed courtroom fell silent as the two sides continued their acrimonious exchange.

The magistrate later summoned both parties to her chambers to discuss how to restore order. The case involves 33 NUP supporters, including MPs Muwada Nkunyingi and Derrick Nyenko, who are charged with malicious damage to property and being a common nuisance.

They were arrested in March during violence linked to the Kawempe North by-election. Criminal summons were also issued for four suspects who failed to appear in court. The matter was adjourned to October 21, 2025, with the expectation that the magistrate would have resolved the complaint before the next hearing.