The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has asked the Court of Appeal to dismiss an appeal lodged by Godfrey Wamala, also known as Troy, contesting his 14-year prison sentence linked to the demise of renowned musician Moses Ssekibogo alias Mowzey Radio.
Wamala’s conviction, established in October 2019 by Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, was based on compelling evidence that supported the charge of manslaughter against him.
The evidence presented indicated that on January 22, 2018, Mowzey Radio visited De Bar, an establishment owned by George Egesa in Entebbe, having been invited by a female friend, Pamela Musiimire.
Accompanied by producer Washington and a colleague, Muhammed Ategek, Radio joined Pamela, her sister Rina Namugumya, and a circle of friends.
Seated at the same table, the late Radio humorously branded Egesa ‘a poor man who is unable to afford drinks.’ Egesa is said to have instructed Hassan to eject Radio from De Bar. During this altercation, it is alleged that Wamala lifted Radio horizontally before hitting his head on the ground.
In line with the prosecution’s account, Wamala eluded police inquiries during Radio’s hospitalization, ultimately surrendering through his sister Jackie Kayaga Muwanga after she revealed his location in Kyengera. Subsequently, Wamala faced trial, leading to his conviction.
In an attempt to challenge the verdict, Wamala submitted a notice of appeal on November 8, 2019, through his legal representatives from Rwakafuuzi and Company Advocates. The appeal hearing occurred four years later, presided over by a panel comprising Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera, Irene Mulyagonja, and Monica Mugenyi.
State attorney Joseph Kyomuhendo urged the court to dismiss the appeal, asserting Wamala’s noncommittal stance in pursuing the case. Kyomuhendo contended that Wamala’s legal team had not produced any supportive documentation since filing the initial notice.
Responding to these claims, Wamala requested an adjournment, citing an incomplete record provided by the High Court. He emphasized the absence of evidence from the first prosecution witness, hindering his new lawyer Sylvia Namawejje’s ability to navigate the case effectively.
Wamala, appearing via Zoom, expressed multiple attempts to secure the missing information, but to no avail.
Lillian Bucyana, the Court of Appeal registrar, affirmed the availability of requisite documents in her possession and acknowledged Wamala’s lawyer’s confirmation of their possession. Wamala’s request for an adjournment was granted, paving the way for further proceedings in the subsequent session.