The High Court conviction of six of the 14 Muslim suspects accused of masterminding the murder of two Muslim leaders and attempted murder; of terrorism instead has drawn mixed reactions from their followers.
On Monday, a panel of three judges of the International Criminal Division of High Court including justices Ezekiel Muhanguzi, Percy Tuhaise and Jane Kiggundu delivered their judgment.
Court found Sheikh Muhammad Yunus Kamoga, the leader of Jamat Dawatil Salafiya, Siraje Kawooya, Murtadha Bukenya, Fahad Kalungi, Abdulsalaam Sekayanja alias Khasim Mulumba and Yusuf Abdullah Kakande guilty of terrorism.
The same court acquitted all the six and their co-accused for the murder of Mustafa Bahiga, the former Kampala District Amir, Ibrahim Hassan Kirya, the former Spokesperson, Kibuli Muslim faction and attempted murder of Dr. Harouna Jjemba, the leader of a rival Tabligh faction.
The judges argued that although prosecution had proved the murder of the duo and threats directed at Dr. Jjemba, it had failed to irresistibly prove to court the involvement of the accused.
The Spokesperson Jamat Dawatil Salafiya,Siraje Kifampa Nsambu, says it was a shock to them that their leaders could be acquitted of murder and end up being convicted for terrorism.
Hamidu Mbazira, a leader at Nakasero Mosque, says whereas they are happy with the acquittals on the three accounts, they are surprised with the convictions on terrorism.
Twaha Mayanja, the lawyer of the convicts says they will appeal the convictions.
The convicts are expected to return to court this afternoon for sentencing.
