The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Jane Frances Abodo, has opposed the bail request of imprisoned lawyer Eron Kiiza, citing the seriousness of his conviction.

Kiiza was sentenced to nine months in prison for contempt of court by the General Court Martial, chaired by Brigadier Robert Freeman Mugabe, on January 7, 2025.

Three weeks after his sentencing, Kiiza applied for bail, arguing that he has a fixed residence in Kiwatule, Nakawa Division, Kampala, within the jurisdiction of the High Court. He also presented three sureties: his wife, Sylvia Tumwebaze, an archives and data manager at Hima Cement, and two lawyers—Dr. Busingye Kabumba, a lecturer at Makerere University, and Primah Kwagala, executive director of Women’s Pro Bono Initiative.

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Kiiza emphasized his family responsibilities, highlighting that he has three children aged between 4 and 10 years who need his presence. He also argued that his continued detention would negatively impact his law firm, Kiiza and Mugisha Company Advocates. Additionally, he requested bail on grounds of good conduct and the pending appeal, which he believes has a strong chance of success.

However, in an affidavit filed by Chief State Attorney Joseph Kyomuhendo, the DPP opposed the application on 11 grounds, arguing that Kiiza, as an advocate, should have upheld court decorum. Kyomuhendo maintained that Kiiza’s conviction was necessary to uphold the integrity of the judicial process and that bail should be denied.

The prosecution further claimed that Kiiza’s appeal had little chance of success, as the High Court lacks jurisdiction over his case. They argued that his appeal should instead be heard by the Court Martial Appeals Court.

Regarding his sureties, the prosecution contended they were not substantial, as they reside in different locations and failed to provide proof of tenancy or property ownership.

Kyomuhendo also dismissed Kiiza’s claim of excessive delay in the appeal process, asserting that the High Court has an efficient case disposal record.

The DPP urged the court to reject the bail application to maintain court decorum and protect the integrity of judicial proceedings. The hearing of Kiiza’s bail application is scheduled before Justice Michael Elubu of the Criminal Division on March 25, 2025.

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