Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) have filled the Nakawa Magistrates Court to show support for a 16-year-old visually impaired girl who was reportedly defiled and infected with HIV by Dr. Lawrence Eron, a professor at Kyambogo University.

Eron, a 56-year-old senior lecturer, served as the acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Special Needs Education at Kyambogo University.

Eron appeared before the Chief Magistrate, Christine Nantege, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, but was barred from taking plea since, according to the prosecutor, his case of aggravated defilement is capital in nature and can only be tried and bailed by the High Court.

The prosecution stated that on October 12, 2023, Eron performed a sexual act with a 16-year-old girl, whom he had authority over and allegedly infected the victim with HIV/AIDS. The incident occurred between Kyambogo University and Namugongo in Nsawo village, Wakiso district.

The court charged Eron with aggravated defilement and he was remanded to Luzira prison until July 31, 2024, when he will appear again before the prosecutor.

Leaders representing PWDs, along with the victim’s father, informed journalists that the case is a litmus test for the judiciary, which is responsible for safeguarding the rights of People with Disabilities.