In a significant legal development, the International Crimes Division of the High Court has denied King Charles Wesley Mumbere of the Rwenzururu Kingdom’s request to release property seized during his arrest in 2016. Presiding Judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha ruled against releasing the property, which includes the King’s residential palace, vehicles, and personal firearm, stating that they are vital exhibits in the ongoing trial of his former Prime Minister, Thembo Kitsumbire.

Justice Komuhangi stressed the importance of preserving the integrity of the trial proceedings, asserting that releasing the property at this stage could potentially compromise the case. She cited specific legal provisions that mandate the retention of exhibits until all legal avenues are exhausted.

Despite arguments from King Mumbere’s legal team that charges against him were dropped in June 2023, the court emphasized that Kitsumbire’s trial remains unresolved. Therefore, the court deemed it necessary to retain the seized property until the conclusion of Kitsumbire’s trial.

The background of the case reveals that King Mumbere and his former Prime Minister were arrested in 2016 following violent clashes involving the Rwenzururu Kingdom and security forces. While charges against King Mumbere were withdrawn, Kitsumbire continues to face trial for offenses related to the 2016 events.

This ruling underscores the court’s commitment to ensuring impartiality and upholding legal procedures. Until Kitsumbire’s trial concludes, King Mumbere’s seized property will remain under the jurisdiction of the court.