Former Special Operations commander in the Uganda Police Force, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Nixon Agasiirwe, has been formally charged in connection with the Joan Kagezi murder, nearly a decade after the state prosecutor’s assassination.
This development follows new testimony from a convict-turned-state witness. On Monday morning, Agasiirwe appeared before the Nakawa Chief Magistrates Court, where prosecutors officially charged him with murder.
Murder Charge in High-Profile Assassination
The prosecution claims that SSP Agasiirwe, together with unidentified accomplices, caused the death of Joan Kagezi on March 30, 2015, in Kiwatule, Nakawa Division, Kampala. They argue the act was deliberate and planned with malice aforethought, meeting the criteria for murder under Uganda’s Penal Code Act, Sections 183 and 184.
Because murder is a capital offence, only the High Court can hear such cases. Therefore, the magistrate did not allow Agasiirwe to enter a plea.
Remand and Ongoing Investigation
Joseph Kyomuhendo, the state prosecutor, requested more time to complete investigations. He explained that the case remains under review and additional evidence is being gathered.
Chief Magistrate Esther Nyadoi approved the request. She ordered that Agasiirwe be remanded to Luzira prison until July 8 for further mention of the case.
Testimony from a Convict Who Turned State Witness
The renewed momentum in the Joan Kagezi murder case stems from the confession of Daniel Kisekka, a 47-year-old convict. He entered a plea bargain with the state, accepting guilt in exchange for a reduced sentence.
Kisekka admitted to being part of the plot and revealed that a man named “Nixon” had sent them to carry out the attack. His statement reportedly led to the arrest of SSP Nixon Agasiirwe, linking him directly to the killing.
Legacy of Joan Kagezi and Impact of the Case
Joan Kagezi served as a senior prosecutor, handling terrorism and organized crime cases. At the time of her death, she led the prosecution in the 2010 Kampala bombing trial. Her murder shocked the country and raised concerns about the safety of judicial officers.
Despite several investigations over the years, no one had been held accountable until now. The arrest of Agasiirwe marks the first direct accusation against a senior official in the case.
Wider Implications for Justice and Accountability
Charging a former high-ranking police officer brings serious legal and political implications. The case opens new discussions about corruption, accountability, and the role of security forces in politically sensitive cases.
The public and legal community now await the next steps. Will the case set a precedent for justice in similar unresolved killings, or will it deepen concerns about impunity in state institutions?
For background on the late prosecutor, visit Joan Kagezi’s Wikipedia profile. To read about the recent sentence of the state witness, see this SoftPower article on Daniel Kisekka’s 35-year sentence. Readers can also explore other recent justice updates, such as the Uganda Police Flying Squad robbery case and the Mbale double murder involving a teen suspect.
