The High Court’s International Crimes Division has officially dropped terrorism charges against former Kawempe North MP Muhammad Ssegirinya following his death on January 9, 2025.

Justice Alice Komuhangi ruled that the case against Ssegirinya automatically ends. “The law is clear that criminal charges against a deceased person cannot continue. The case against the late Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya is hereby terminated,” she stated.

She also extended her sympathies to his loved ones. “The court expresses its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and legal team of the late Hon. Ssegirinya. May his soul rest in peace,” Justice Komuhangi added.

The court further directed the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to file an updated charge sheet by April 1, since the trial of other accused persons, including Makindye West MP Allan Ssewanyana, is still ongoing. Ssewanyana remains out on bail.

Ssegirinya had been battling serious health issues for a long time. In October 2023, he was discharged from UMC Hospital in the Netherlands, where he had been receiving treatment.

Later, he was admitted to Nsambya Hospital in Uganda for lung complications. He later revealed he was suffering from skin cancer, hypertension, and lung infections. His condition worsened, leading to further treatment at Aga Khan Hospital in Kenya before his passing at Lubaga Hospital.

Ssegirinya and Ssewanyana were arrested in 2021 over alleged involvement in the Greater Masaka machete killings, where several people lost their lives. Prosecutors accused them of multiple murders and financing the attacks. They were granted bail in February 2023 after spending over 500 days in prison.

Following Ssegirinya’s death, a by-election was held, and Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola won the seat for Kawempe North. However, his victory is being challenged in court by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), which claims electoral irregularities.