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3 year old murdered, body found in pit latrine-Kiruhura district

Written by kazofm.admin on January 16, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Residents of Kabushwere Parish in Kashongi Sub-County, Kiruhura District are grappling with fear and grief following the tragic kidnapping and murder of Medard Arinda,3. The boy’s lifeless body was discovered in a pit latrine at Akatogo Trading Center raising serious concerns among community members and local authorities.

According to Arinda’s father, Alex Bariyo, the horrifying incident occurred on January 7, 2025.

In a meeting attended by district security authorities including the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) George Bakunda and the LCV chairman, the community was reassured that justice would be served in regard to the brutal murder of the minor.

Boniface Nuwamanya, Officer in Charge of Kashongi Police Post revealed that upon receiving the report of a missing child, he immediately initiated a follow-up investigation. “We acted swiftly to gather any leads,” he stated.

SP Hajji Kitaka Surite, the District Police Commander (DPC) for Kiruhura, urged the community to be vigilant and support one another to prevent such tragic incidents in the future. He confirmed that four suspects have been taken into custody including an Egyptian national as police continue to investigate into the matter.

Dan Mukago, the LCV Chairman for Kiruhura district, pledged that the bereaved family would receive the support and justice they deserve. “We stand with the family during this difficult time and will ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” he stated.

In light of this tragic event, RDC George Bakunda reaffirmed the commitment of local authorities to investigate the kidnapping and murder of the minor.

Iranian President rejects allegations on plot to assassinate US president elect-Trump

Written by kazofm.admin on January 15, 2025. Posted in Across Africa, News.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has firmly rejected allegations that Iran plotted to assassinate U.S. President-elect Donald Trump following claims of two attempted attacks on his life in 2024. Pezeshkian emphasized that such a notion was unfounded and would never be a part of Iran’s intentions.

During the interview aired just days before Trump’s inauguration, Pezeshkian stated, “We have never attempted this (the assassination bid on Trump) to begin with and we never will.” His comments come in light of previous claims from the U.S. Department of Justice which charged an Iranian man linked to an alleged plot orchestrated by Iran’s elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to assassinate Trump. Law enforcement officials indicated that the operation was thwarted prior to any action being taken.

Trump himself had suggested during his election campaign that Iran might be behind attempts on his life. He survived two assassination attempts during the campaign: one in September while golfing in West Palm Beach, Florida and another during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania in July. However, investigations have found no evidence linking Iran to either incident.

In addition to discussing the alleged plot, President Pezeshkian reiterated Iran’s stance on its nuclear program asserting that it is purely peaceful and not aimed at developing nuclear weapons. He warned Trump against the possibility of escalating tensions that could lead to war, saying, “I do hope that Trump will conduce to peace in the region and the world not conversely contribute to bloodshed or war.”

Pezeshkian’s remarks highlight the ongoing friction between the U.S. and Iran particularly after Trump’s first term, during which the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) aimed at curtailing Iran’s nuclear ambitions in exchange for sanctions relief. He expressed concern over the lack of commitment from the U.S. regarding the agreements indicating that the primary issue is not dialogue but adherence to commitments made during such discussions.

Furthermore, Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi reported that ongoing negotiations with European powers are progressing suggesting a seriousness regarding the resumption of discussions related to Iran’s nuclear program. Pezeshkian’s statements encapsulate a cautious optimism about potential future dialogue while simultaneously reinforcing Iran’s stance against foreign threats and accusations.

President Yoon Arrested Over Martial Law Insurrection Allegations

Written by kazofm.admin on January 15, 2025. Posted in Across Africa.

South Korea’s impeached President Yoon Suk-Yeol has been arrested in the early hours of Wednesday morning, January 15, 2024, as authorities accused him of insurrection stemming from his brief imposition of martial law; a decision that was swiftly overturned by the National Assembly. Yoon becomes the first sitting South Korean president to be arrested.

The Joint Investigation Headquarters announced the execution of the arrest warrant at 10:33 a.m. local time leading to a tense standoff at Yoon’s residence where investigators had to utilize ladders to access the property due to barricades stationed by the Presidential Security Service. Reports indicated that thousands of Yoon’s supporters gathered outside his home alongside lawmakers from the governing conservative People Power Party and his legal team who attempted to block the arrest.

Following his arrest, Yoon was taken to the Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang for questioning. The deputy chief of Korea’s Corruption Investigation Office (CIO), Lee Jae-seung, led the interrogation. Yoon exercised his right to remain silent and denied permission for the session to be filmed. The CIO has prepared a comprehensive 200-page questionnaire for Yoon but did not disclose the reasons behind his refusal to speak.

In a prerecorded statement released after his arrest, Yoon expressed that he complied with the investigation to prevent “bloodshed,” despite challenging the legality of the inquiry. “I decided to respond to the Corruption Investigation Office to avert any unfortunate bloodshed,” he stated.

Investigators had made a prior attempt to arrest Yoon earlier in January which ended in a prolonged standoff. Since then, Yoon had remained in seclusion in his hillside villa in Seoul evading arrest and subsequently failing to attend his impeachment trial.

The impeachment proceedings were initiated following Yoon’s controversial martial law declaration on December 3, 2023, in response to perceived threats from North Korea. His decision had included deploying troops to parliament but lawmakers quickly countered his move leading to a retraction of the martial law declaration after just six hours. This incident has plunged South Korea into a significant political crisis contributing to Yoon’s plummeting popularity.

As news of Yoon’s arrest unfolded, the CIO has 48 hours to question him before needing to apply for a warrant for his detention which could allow for up to 20 days of holding him as investigations continue. Observers anticipate that Yoon may be compelled to attend his impeachment hearing now that he has been taken into custody.

The political landscape in South Korea remains tumultuous with ongoing ramifications from Yoon’s controversial decisions during his presidency which began in May 2022 after rising to prominence as the chief prosecutor in the corruption investigation against former president Park Geun-hye in 2017.

Veterans to Lead the Fight Against Poverty-Ibanda district

Written by kazofm.admin on January 15, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Veterans in Ibanda district have been asked to continue the legacy of the liberation struggle by actively combating poverty within their communities. This was during an event at the Ibanda district head office on January 14.

Jovrine Kyomukama Kaliisa, the Deputy National Coordinator of the Parish Development Model (PDM), encouraged veterans to serve as role models and take a lead in addressing various challenges including poverty.

Kaliisa was handing over hoes donated by the government to civilian veterans in Ibanda Municipality as part of the initiative aimed at empowering Ugandans economically. She emphasized that the donation symbolizes the government’s gratitude for the veterans’ contributions to the country’s liberation struggle.

“This donation is not just support; it’s a sign that the government has not forgotten you,” she stated. “These hoes are tools to help you in your new struggle to create wealth and enhance household incomes,” Kaliisa revealed.The hoes will be distributed to civilian veterans across various sub-counties within the district.

The Deputy National PDM Coordinator commended the veterans for their pivotal role in supporting the National Resistance Movement (NRM) liberation struggle which paved way for peace and stability in Uganda. She pointed out that while the NRM’s fight in the 1980s focused on establishing rule of law and security. She further revealed that the current challenges require the veterans’ ongoing engagement and leadership.

Among those benefiting from the initiative was 80-year-old, Yusuf Katonyamu from Katooma II, Kagongo Division in Ibanda Municipality. Katonyamu expressed his gratitude for receiving two hoes and acknowledged previous support from the government, including 300 coffee seedlings he received two years ago.

Winnie Bagarukayo, representing Ruyonza in Kayenje Ward of Bufunda Division echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the timeliness of the hoes as farmers prepare for the upcoming planting season. “This support comes at a crucial moment as we get ready to cultivate our gardens,” she remarked.

Kaliisa’s message to the veterans underscores the vital role they can play in not only reviving their communities but also in contributing to Uganda’s overall development as the nation continues to navigate through new challenges.

Sebutinde’s Landmark Ruling Sparks Diplomatic Repercussions Amid ICJ Leadership Changes

Written by kazofm.admin on January 15, 2025. Posted in Africa.

Julia Sebutinde, the first African woman to serve on the International Court of Justice (ICJ), recently made headlines with her ruling on the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The decision, which dismissed South Africa’s requests for temporary injunctions to halt the hostilities in Gaza has ignited a wave of diplomatic responses particularly from her home country of Uganda.

Born in February 1954 in Uganda, Sebutinde’s impressive career has been anchored in international justice. Following her appointment to Uganda’s Supreme Court in 1996, she garnered attention for leading pivotal anti-corruption investigations. Her international presence soared in 2005 when she joined the Special Court for Sierra Leone contributing to the groundbreaking trial of former Liberian President Charles Taylor.

In February 2012, Sebutinde broke new ground by becoming the first woman from Africa appointed to the ICJ, a role that she has since continued to redefine through her influential rulings. However, her most recent decision concerning the Israel-Hamas war has raised eyebrows, particularly as she characterized the conflict as fundamentally political asserting that it falls outside the realm of the court’s legal jurisdiction.

This ruling prompted Uganda’s UN Ambassador Adonia Ayebare to publicly clarify that Sebutinde’s position does not align with Uganda’s official stance on the conflict, illustrating the complexities of international law at a time of diplomatic tensions.

The ICJ is currently navigating a leadership transition, which comes at a critical juncture. The court is set to hear Israel’s defense against South Africa’s case in July and with the president of the ICJ playing a decisive role in such proceedings, this leadership change bears significant implications for international justice and Middle East diplomacy.

Salam, who was recently elected as ICJ president alongside Sebutinde in February 2024 has also faced adjustment as the Lebanese parliament accepted newly elected President Joseph Aoun’s request for government formation, necessitating his exit. As Salam steps down, the UN will look to appoint a new judge to represent the Asia region, further influencing the dynamics within the court.

As Sebutinde assumes this pivotal position of leadership, she stands at the intersection of vital issues in both international law and global diplomacy making her upcoming decisions crucial not just for the ICJ, but for the broader framework of international relations and justice.

13 year old girl burnt by guardian-Kazo

Written by kazofm.admin on January 14, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Police in Kazo District are investigating allegations of torture involving a 13-year-old girl in the care of a woman only identified as Judith, who has been taking care of her since she was three. Residents of Bwizi A Cell in Buremba Town council report that Judith has subjected the girl to severe abuse including recent burns to her face, legs and private parts.

The minor has gone days with this excruciating pain but has not had access to medical attention since she experience the burns.

Twine Dan, the LC 1 chairperson of Bwizi A Cell confirmed the abuse and stated that he would take care of the girl until Judith returns from Kinoni Sub County, Kiruhura District where she has been attended a funeral.

Twine took the child to Buremba Police Station where officers advised him to prevail over her care while awaiting Judith’s return.

Sgt. Kwizera Fidel, Officer in Charge of Buremba Police Station, indicated that an investigation has been launched into the matter and the child remains under the custody of Twine.

Police Hunt for Thugs Following Violent Attack on Rubirizi Resident

Written by kazofm.admin on January 13, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Police in Rubirizi District are actively pursuing a group of unknown assailants who reportedly attacked Bernard Ndagano,45, and stole Shs2,000 from him. The incident occurred in the early hours of January 12, 2025 around 2:00 am in Kasungu Cell in Kasarara Ward.

According to the Police spokesperson for Greater Bushenyi, Martial Tumusiime, the victim sought refuge at his aunt’s house after the attack. She reported that he knocked on her door pleading for help. When she opened the door, she found him lying on the ground severely injured and bleeding from deep cuts to his forehead, left arm and the back of his neck.

The victim recounted that as he was approaching the Rugazi Hospital mortuary, two unknown men started following him. In an attempt to evade them, he took a feeder road he often used to reach home. However, the assailants caught up with him, demanded money and when he attempted to flee, one struck him with a large stick while the other inflicted cuts with a sharp object. The attackers then took Shs.2,000 he had in his left trouser pocket before fleeing the scene.

After the assault, Ndagano managed to make his way home where he was subsequently taken to Rugazi Health Centre IV for initial treatment. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later referred to Kampala International University (KIU) for further medical attention which included a CT scan.

The police have initiated an investigation into the incident and encourage anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in identifying the suspects involved in this brazen attack.

Byabakama calls for critical data on PDWs ahead of 2026 polls

Written by kazofm.admin on January 12, 2025. Posted in News.

The Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, has acknowledged that the lack of critical data regarding persons with disabilities (PWDs) from the National Union of Disabled Persons of Uganda has significantly hindered the inclusivity of the electoral process in Uganda.

In a message delivered by Richard Baabo Kamugisha, the Acting Secretary of the Electoral Commission, it was highlighted that the failure to provide election instructions in accessible formats has made it difficult for individuals with visual impairments and blindness to select their preferred candidates.

Byabakama emphasized that while the law allows for the inclusion of trusted aides to assist PWDs during the voting process, in some cases, these rights have been infringed upon. His comments were made on Friday during a regional stakeholders’ workshop held at Hotel Triangle in Mbarara as part of preparations for the upcoming General Update of the National Voters Register, scheduled for January 20 to February 10, 2025.

Kamugisha noted that the Electoral Commission had aimed to use Braille or larger font documents to facilitate voting for visually impaired individuals. However, the absence of specific data on the number of eligible PWD voters has prevented these special arrangements from being implemented.

He also urged politicians to move away from commercialized politics and the intra- and inter-party rivalries that often lead to violence and division, particularly in the pursuit of political victory.

Robert Beine, the Regional Election Officer, called on the public to actively participate in the forthcoming voter registration update to promote inclusivity and ensure credible elections. He also encouraged students to register before schools reopen, highlighting that voter transfers would only be possible during this update exercise.

The update process will encompass the registration of new voters, transfer of voters, minor corrections, assignment of polling stations and the creation of revised registers for special interest groups.

90 year old man ends life

Written by kazofm.admin on January 10, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

Police in Kazo District are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Yusuf Kataryeeba, 90, a resident of Keicumu 1, Keicumu parish,Enagari sub county.

Preliminary investigations reveal that Kataryeeba committed suicide by hanging. According to the deceased’s wife revealed that her husband was struggling with estrangement from relatives which made him feel lonely.

Kenneth Taremwa Mukuru, the defense secretary,, urged community members to share their problems with neighbors, emphasizing that this was the second suicide incident in the area.

Alex Asiimwe, the chairperson of LC1 Keicumu1, revealed to our reporter that suicide is not a solution to life’s challenges. He encouraged residents to seek support and communicate openly about their struggles.

UPDF soldier fires colleague dead in Kisoro

Written by kazofm.admin on January 8, 2025. Posted in Local, News.

A soldier from the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF), attached to the 35th Battalion in Kisoro district, has tragically shot dead by a fellow officer in an incident that occurred on the night of Tuesday January 8. The deceased, identified only as Lawrence was a resident of Bushenyi District and sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the neck resulting in his immediate death.

According to sources within the battalion who spoke on the condition of anonymity, the incident took place while Lawrence and the suspect whose identity has yet to be confirmed were conducting a night patrol in Nturo Trading Centre along the Nturo-Nyarusiza road in Nyarusiza sub-county. The two soldiers reportedly got into a disagreement which escalated and led to the shooting.

Following the incident, security officials transported Lawrence’s body to Kisoro Hospital mortuary for a postmortem examination.

Maj. Kiconco Tabaro, the Public Information Officer for the UPDF 2nd Infantry Division confirmed the incident on Wednesday stating that investigations are currently underway. He urged the public to remain calm and reassured that efforts to apprehend the suspect are in progress.

Author: kazofm.admin