Etudebo James & 3 Ors v Uganda (Criminal Appeal No. 93 of 2002) [2009] UGCA 3 (19 March 2009)

{\rtf1\ansi\ansicpg1252\uc1\deff0\stshfdbch0\stshfloch0\stshfhich0\stshfbi0\deflang2057\deflangfe2057{\fonttbl{\f0\froman\fcharset0\fprq2{\*\panose 02020603050405020304}Times New Roman;}{\f174\froman\fcharset238\fprq2 Times New Roman CE;} {\f175\froman\fcharset204\fprq2 Times New Roman Cyr;}{\f177\froman\fcharset161\fprq2 Times New Roman Greek;}{\f178\froman\fcharset162\fprq2 Times New Roman Tur;}{\f179\froman\fcharset177\fprq2 Times New Roman (Hebrew);} {\f180\froman\fcharset178\fprq2 Times New Roman (Arabic);}{\f181\froman\fcharset186\fprq2 Times New Roman Baltic;}{\f182\froman\fcharset163\fprq2 Times New Roman (Vietnamese);}}{\colortbl;\red0\green0\blue0;\red0\green0\blue255;\red0\green255\blue255; \red0\green255\blue0;\red255\green0\blue255;\red255\green0\blue0;\red255\green255\blue0;\red255\green255\blue255;\red0\green0\blue128;\red0\green128\blue128;\red0\green128\blue0;\red128\green0\blue128;\red128\green0\blue0;\red128\green128\blue0; \red128\green128\blue128;\red192\green192\blue192;}{\stylesheet{\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \snext0 Normal;}{\*\cs10 \additive \ssemihidden Default Paragraph Font;}{\*\ts11\tsrowd\trftsWidthB3\trpaddl108\trpaddr108\trpaddfl3\trpaddft3\trpaddfb3\trpaddfr3\trcbpat1\trcfpat1\tscellwidthfts0\tsvertalt\tsbrdrt\tsbrdrl\tsbrdrb\tsbrdrr\tsbrdrdgl\tsbrdrdgr\tsbrdrh\tsbrdrv \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1024\langfe1024\cgrid\langnp1024\langfenp1024 \snext11 \ssemihidden Normal Table;}{\s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar \tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 \sbasedon0 \snext15 \styrsid11038770 footer;}{\*\cs16 \additive \sbasedon10 \styrsid11038770 page number;}{\*\cs17 \additive \sbasedon10 \styrsid11038770 line number;}}{\*\latentstyles\lsdstimax156\lsdlockeddef0}{\*\listtable{\list\listtemplateid679481410\listhybrid{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360 \levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'00.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li720\jclisttab\tx720\lin720 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext \leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'01.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li1440\jclisttab\tx1440\lin1440 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715 \'02\'02.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li2160\jclisttab\tx2160\lin2160 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'03.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;} \fi-360\li2880\jclisttab\tx2880\lin2880 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'04.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li3600\jclisttab\tx3600\lin3600 } {\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'05.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li4320\jclisttab\tx4320\lin4320 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'06.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li5040\jclisttab\tx5040\lin5040 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'07.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li5760\jclisttab\tx5760\lin5760 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext \leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'08.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li6480\jclisttab\tx6480\lin6480 }{\listname ;}\listid638341902}{\list\listtemplateid-158454534\listhybrid{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'00.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li720\jclisttab\tx720\lin720 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext \leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'01.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li1440\jclisttab\tx1440\lin1440 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715 \'02\'02.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li2160\jclisttab\tx2160\lin2160 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'03.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;} \fi-360\li2880\jclisttab\tx2880\lin2880 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'04.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li3600\jclisttab\tx3600\lin3600 } {\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'05.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li4320\jclisttab\tx4320\lin4320 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0 \leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'06.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li5040\jclisttab\tx5040\lin5040 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'07.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li5760\jclisttab\tx5760\lin5760 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace360\levelindent0{\leveltext \leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'08.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li6480\jclisttab\tx6480\lin6480 }{\listname ;}\listid1101684271}{\list\listtemplateid520916092\listhybrid{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1 \levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid1123197490\'03(\'00);}{\levelnumbers\'02;}\fbias0 \fi-720\li1080\jclisttab\tx1080\lin1080 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0 {\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'01.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li1440\jclisttab\tx1440\lin1440 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715 \'02\'02.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li2160\jclisttab\tx2160\lin2160 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'03.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li2880 \jclisttab\tx2880\lin2880 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'04.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li3600\jclisttab\tx3600\lin3600 }{\listlevel \levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'05.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li4320\jclisttab\tx4320\lin4320 }{\listlevel\levelnfc0\levelnfcn0\leveljc0\leveljcn0 \levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698703\'02\'06.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li5040\jclisttab\tx5040\lin5040 }{\listlevel\levelnfc4\levelnfcn4\leveljc0\leveljcn0\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0 \levelindent0{\leveltext\leveltemplateid67698713\'02\'07.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-360\li5760\jclisttab\tx5760\lin5760 }{\listlevel\levelnfc2\levelnfcn2\leveljc2\leveljcn2\levelfollow0\levelstartat1\levelspace0\levelindent0{\leveltext \leveltemplateid67698715\'02\'08.;}{\levelnumbers\'01;}\fi-180\li6480\jclisttab\tx6480\lin6480 }{\listname ;}\listid1221865356}}{\*\listoverridetable{\listoverride\listid1101684271\listoverridecount0\ls1}{\listoverride\listid638341902 \listoverridecount0\ls2}{\listoverride\listid1221865356\listoverridecount0\ls3}}{\*\rsidtbl \rsid339464\rsid725646\rsid815924\rsid1199345\rsid1736178\rsid1996819\rsid2190067\rsid2316933\rsid2507529\rsid2819101\rsid2915548\rsid3241873\rsid3367654 \rsid3682527\rsid3812264\rsid4076448\rsid4092750\rsid4613536\rsid4616222\rsid4667496\rsid4804087\rsid4922125\rsid4926840\rsid5007743\rsid5377164\rsid5530623\rsid5705258\rsid5917151\rsid5965628\rsid6032564\rsid6308332\rsid6319982\rsid6971789\rsid7626273 \rsid7682059\rsid7888529\rsid8023369\rsid8337458\rsid8723997\rsid8784136\rsid9265660\rsid9269089\rsid9375165\rsid9398627\rsid9706397\rsid10172969\rsid10552913\rsid11038770\rsid11103854\rsid11287282\rsid11298361\rsid11304719\rsid12068511\rsid12205093 \rsid12218474\rsid12346833\rsid12415214\rsid12531908\rsid12782584\rsid13251586\rsid13641599\rsid14102021\rsid14230206\rsid14374808\rsid14507543\rsid14550132\rsid14621266\rsid15168528\rsid15356459\rsid15560516\rsid15868245\rsid15949704\rsid16525302 \rsid16601806\rsid16713366\rsid16736715}{\*\generator Microsoft Word 11.0.5604;}{\info{\title THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA}{\author Hon. Justice C. K Byamugisha}{\operator jchemeri}{\creatim\yr2009\mo3\dy25\hr14\min12}{\revtim\yr2009\mo3\dy25\hr14\min12} {\printim\yr2009\mo3\dy23\hr14\min52}{\version2}{\edmins1}{\nofpages7}{\nofwords1825}{\nofchars10405}{\nofcharsws12206}{\vern24689}}\paperw11909\paperh16834\margl1440\margr1440 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\formshade\horzdoc\dgmargin\dghspace120\dgvspace180\dghorigin1440\dgvorigin1440\dghshow2\dgvshow2 \jexpand\viewkind1\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\splytwnine\ftnlytwnine\nolnhtadjtbl\useltbaln\alntblind\lytcalctblwd\lyttblrtgr\lnbrkrule\nobrkwrptbl\snaptogridincell\allowfieldendsel\wrppunct\asianbrkrule \rsidroot11038770\newtblstyruls\nogrowautofit \fet0{\*\ftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8723997 \chftnsep \par }}{\*\ftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8723997 \chftnsepc \par }}{\*\aftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8723997 \chftnsep \par }}{\*\aftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid8723997 \chftnsepc \par }}\sectd \psz9\linemod5\linex0\endnhere\sectlinegrid360\sectdefaultcl\sectrsid5530623\sftnbj {\footer \pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\pvpara\phmrg\posxr\posy0\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4076448 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\field{\*\fldinst {\cs16\insrsid5007743 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {\cs16\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid12415214 7}}}{\cs16\insrsid5007743 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri360\widctlpar\tqc\tx4320\tqr\tx8640\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin360\lin0\itap0\pararsid11038770 {\insrsid5007743 \par }}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}} {\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8 \pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11038770 \b\i\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA}{\i0\insrsid5530623\charrsid12415214 \par }{\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 IN THE COURT OF APPEAL OF UGANDA \par AT KAMPALA \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11038770 {\ul\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 CORAM:}{\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 HON. LADY JUSTICE A. E. N. MPAGI-BAHIGEINE, JA. \par HON. LADY JUSTICE C. K. BYAMUGISHA, JA. \par HON. MR. JUSTICE A. S. NSHIMYE, JA. \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11038770 {\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 }{\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 \par }{\i0\ul\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO.093/2002 \par \par }{\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 BETWEEN \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-360\li720\ri0\widctlpar \jclisttab\tx720\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11038770 {\b0\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 ETUDEBO}{\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 JAMES}{\b0\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2.\tab}LENGU VALERIO \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3.\tab}DRAMA OPIO PONZIO \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4.\tab}EDEDRAVU BLASIO:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::APPELLANTS \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11038770 {\b0\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11038770 {\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 AND \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11038770 {\b0\i0\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 UGANDA:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::RESPONDENT \par \par }{\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 [}{\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 Appeal from the judgment and decision of the High Court of Uganda}{\insrsid9265660\charrsid12415214 Arua H}{\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 igh Court Circuit (}{ \i0\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 Kania J) }{\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 dated 4}{\super\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 th}{\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 July 2002 in HCCSC No.06/2001]}{\insrsid11038770\charrsid12415214 \par }{\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 \par }{\i0\ul\insrsid9706397\charrsid12415214 JUDGMENT OF THE COURT \par }{\i0\ul\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sl480\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8784136 {\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 The appellants herein were indicted for murder contrary to }{\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 sections 188}{\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 and }{\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 189 }{\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 of the }{\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 Penal Code Act}{\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 . It was alleged in the particulars of the indictment that the appellants and others still at large, on the 6}{\b0\i0\super\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 th}{\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 day of February 2001}{ \b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 ,}{\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 at Nyago village in Arua District murdered Alidria Albert Orsino}{\b0\i0\insrsid8337458\charrsid12415214 .}{\b0\i0\insrsid8784136\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid8337458\charrsid12415214 On being arraigned, the appellants pleaded not guilty and raised alibi as a }{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 defense.}{\b0\i0\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid8337458\charrsid12415214 After a full trial, the learned judge with the unanimous agreement of the lady and gentleman assessors convicted }{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 them }{\b0\i0\insrsid8337458\charrsid12415214 as charged and sentenced them to death- hence this appeal. \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 \par The memorandum of appeal filed on their behalf by M/S Alaka&Co Advocates has the following grounds: \par {\listtext\pard\plain\b\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 1.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-360\li720\ri0\sl480\slmult1\widctlpar \jclisttab\tx720\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid14374808 {\i0\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 The learned trial judge erred in law and fact when}{\i0\insrsid9375165\charrsid12415214 he failed to properly evaluate}{ \i0\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 }{\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 the }{\i0\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 evidence on record thereby coming to a wrong conclusion. \par {\listtext\pard\plain\b\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 2.\tab}The learned trial judge erred in law and in fact in that he held that P. W. 2 correctly identified the appellants and that the conditions for proper identification were favorable when this was not so for his evidence was conflicting, unreliable and uncorroborated. \par {\listtext\pard\plain\b\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 3.\tab}The learned judge erred in law and fact when he failed to resolve the discrepancies and contradictions in the prosecution evidence in favour of the appellants. \par {\listtext\pard\plain\b\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 4.\tab}The learned trial judge erred in law when he rejected the appellants\rquote alibi when there was no prosecution evidence to negative}{\i0\insrsid4667496\charrsid12415214 it and instead shifted the burden of disproving it onto the appellants.}{\i0\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\b\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid4667496\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 5.\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-360\li720\ri0\sl480\slmult1\widctlpar \jclisttab\tx720\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid1996819 {\i0\insrsid4667496\charrsid12415214 The learned trial judge erred in law when he convicted the appellants basing on the weaknesses of the appellants case.}{ \b0\i0\insrsid1996819\charrsid12415214 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sl480\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid8784136 {\b0\i0\insrsid1996819\charrsid12415214 It was proposed that the appeal be allowed, the conviction quashed and the sentence of death set aside.} {\b0\i0\insrsid14374808\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid1996819\charrsid12415214 \par The facts that led to the prosecution of the appellants are as follows. During the month of January 2001}{\b0\i0\insrsid10552913\charrsid12415214 a meeting}{\b0\i0\insrsid3241873\charrsid12415214 of Nyigo clan was}{ \b0\i0\insrsid10552913\charrsid12415214 convened}{\b0\i0\insrsid3241873\charrsid12415214 . }{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid3241873\charrsid12415214 It was chaired by one Raphalie Ejia and attended by many clan members. Also in attendance was}{\b0\i0\insrsid10552913\charrsid12415214 the parish c}{\b0\i0\insrsid3241873\charrsid12415214 hief of Obica parish, the LC 1 Chairperson, the LC11 Secretary and an Administration Police Sergeant. The purpose of the meeting according to the testimony of Drani }{\b0\i0\insrsid15168528\charrsid12415214 Christopher (}{ \b0\i0\insrsid3241873\charrsid12415214 P. W.2) and Asendu }{\b0\i0\insrsid15168528\charrsid12415214 Patrick (}{\b0\i0\insrsid3241873\charrsid12415214 P. W.3)}{\b0\i0\insrsid5377164\charrsid12415214 was to identify persons who had caused the death of two clan members through poisoning or witchcraft.}{\b0\i0\insrsid1996819\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid5377164\charrsid12415214 The meeting identified the people who included the deceased and they were banished from the clan. They were given one month to relocate to another area. The deceased instead of relo cating to another area, filed a complaint with the police that he had been framed.}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid5377164\charrsid12415214 As a result, 12 people including the appellants were arrested and detained at Oluvu Police Post. When the clan members learnt of their arrest and detention, they went to the police post and demanded their release} {\b0\i0\insrsid3812264\charrsid12415214 which was done. Prior }{\b0\i0\insrsid5917151\charrsid12415214 to their release,}{\b0\i0\insrsid3812264\charrsid12415214 five of the detained people had }{\b0\i0\insrsid5917151\charrsid12415214 already }{ \b0\i0\insrsid3812264\charrsid12415214 escaped.}{\b0\i0\insrsid5377164\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid5917151\charrsid12415214 On 6}{\b0\i0\super\insrsid5917151\charrsid12415214 th}{\b0\i0\insrsid5917151\charrsid12415214 February 2001 at about 9 p.m as the deceased and P. W.2 who was his son, were returning home, they were ambushed on the way by a group of people who included the appellants. The deceased was beaten to death}{\b0\i0\insrsid7888529\charrsid12415214 .}{\b0\i0\insrsid5917151\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid7888529\charrsid12415214 A postmortem was carried}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 out}{\b0\i0\insrsid7888529\charrsid12415214 and a report compiled by Dr A Vuni, the Medical superintendent of Maracca Hospital, was tendered in evidence under the provision of }{\insrsid7888529\charrsid12415214 section 66 }{\b0\i0\insrsid7888529\charrsid12415214 of the }{ \i0\insrsid7888529\charrsid12415214 Trial on Indictments Act. }{\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid7888529\charrsid12415214 The examination revealed various deep cut wounds and the cause of death was failure of vital organs of the body like the heart and brain. There was also heavy loss of blood. \par The appellants were arrested and charged. \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid5007743\charrsid12415214 The prosecution called three witnesses to prove the indictment. Each of the appellants gave an unsworn statement and called no witnesses. \par \par When the}{\b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 appeal came before us, Mr Caleb}{\b0\i0\insrsid5007743\charrsid12415214 Alaka who represented all the appellants argued grounds 1, 3, and 5 together and the rest of the grounds separately. \par Learned counsel in his submissions, argued that the learned trial judge failed to evaluate the evidence on record; failed to }{\b0\i0\insrsid4092750\charrsid12415214 resolve the contradictions and based himself on the wea}{ \b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 knesses of the appellants\rquote case}{\b0\i0\insrsid5007743\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid4092750\charrsid12415214 He pointed out }{\b0\i0\insrsid7682059\charrsid12415214 that the trial judge in dealing with the evidence }{\b0\i0\insrsid13251586\charrsid12415214 of P. W}{\b0\i0\insrsid7682059\charrsid12415214 . 2 who was the sole identifying witness did not resolve the contradictions in the names of those who were suspected to have been involved in the commission of the offence.}{\b0\i0\insrsid4092750\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214 In reply, Mr Waninda opposed the appeal and dismissed the grounds of appeal. He stated that they lack}{\b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 ed}{\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214 merit. He supported the trial judge\rquote s evaluation of evidence. He also pointed out that there were no major discrepancies in the prosecution evidence and none were pointed out.}{\b0\i0\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214 On the identification of the appellants at the scene of crime, he stated that the trial judge followed the }{\b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 relevant }{\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214 guidelines and legal principles}{\b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 regarding}{\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214 one identifying witness. \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 \par It now trite law that when visual identification of an accused person is made by a witness in difficult conditions like at night such evidence should not ordinarily be acted upon to convict the accused in absence of other evidence to corroborate it.

\par The problem of cases which depend on identification only}{\b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 ,}{\b0\i0\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 like the instant appeal}{\b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 ,}{\b0\i0\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 has been a subject of judicial consideration in a number of authorities. In the case of }{\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 Roria v Republic [1967}{\insrsid10172969\charrsid12415214 ] EA}{\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 583 }{ \b0\i0\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 at page 584 the Court of Appeal for East Africa said: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10172969 {\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 \'93A conviction}{\b0\i0\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 }{\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214 resting entirely on identity}{\insrsid10172969\charrsid12415214 invariably causes a degree of uneasiness and as Lord Gardener LC }{\insrsid6308332\charrsid12415214 said in}{\insrsid10172969\charrsid12415214 the House of Lords in the course of a debate on s.4 of the Criminal Appeal Act\'85\'85\'85}{\insrsid6971789\charrsid12415214 \rquote There may be a case in which the identity is in question and if any innocent people are convicted today I should think that in nine cases out of ten-if there are as many as ten- it is in a question of identity\rquote }{\insrsid16713366\charrsid12415214

\par }{\insrsid6971789\charrsid12415214 That danger is, of course, greater when the only evidence against an accused person is identification by one witness and although no one would suggest that a conviction base d on such evidence of identification should never be}{\insrsid6308332\charrsid12415214 upheld it is the duty of this court to satisfy itself that in all the circumstances it is safe to act on such identification.}{\insrsid2915548\charrsid12415214 \'94}{ \insrsid6971789\charrsid12415214 \par }{\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 }{\b0\i0\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sl480\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid14550132 {\b0\i0\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 The conditions which are considered favourable for correct identification without any possibility of error have been laid down in a number of authorities such as }{\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 Abdalla Bin Wendo v R (1953) 20 EACA 166, Abdalla Nabulere &others v Uganda [1979] HCB 77, Moses Kasana v Uganda [1992-83] HCB 47 } {\b0\i0\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 and }{\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 Moses Bogere &another v Uganda \endash Criminal Appeal No.1/97(SC) (}{\b0\i0\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 unreported) \par The following were the conditions that were set out: \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (i)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1080\ri0\sl480\slmult1\widctlpar \jclisttab\tx1080\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin1080\itap0\pararsid14550132 {\b0\i0\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 Whether the accused was known to the identifying witness at the time of the offence. \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid7626273\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (ii)\tab}}{\b0\i0\insrsid7626273\charrsid12415214 The length of time the witness took to identify the accused.}{ \b0\i0\insrsid14550132\charrsid12415214 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid7626273\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (iii)\tab}}{\b0\i0\insrsid7626273\charrsid12415214 The distance from which the witness identified the accused. \par {\listtext\pard\plain\lang1033\langfe1033\langnp1033\langfenp1033\insrsid7626273\charrsid12415214 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (iv)\tab}The source of light that was available at the material time. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\sl480\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid13641599 {\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214 \par We shall now examine the evidence of the identifying witness and determine for ourselves }{\b0\i0\insrsid12782584\charrsid12415214 whether}{\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214 the }{\b0\i0\insrsid12782584\charrsid12415214 identification was free from error.}{\b0\i0\insrsid15356459\charrsid12415214 }{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid15356459\charrsid12415214 The evidence of PW2 on identification was that he knew the attackers before since they were village mates. The conditions prevailing at the time was a bright moonlight.}{\b0\i0\insrsid13641599\charrsid12415214

\par }{\b0\i0\insrsid15356459\charrsid12415214 The attack was sudden and lasted about four minutes. He was frightened. \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid3682527\charrsid12415214 In cross-examination he stated that although he was frightened he was able to identify the attackers.}{\b0\i0\insrsid2507529\charrsid12415214 He further stated that the attackers were many but he was able to identify the four appellants and others that were not arrested.}{\b0\i0\insrsid3682527\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 The conditions prevailing at the time of the attack were mixed. On one hand, the witness knew the attackers and there was bright moonlight. On the other, the attack was sudden a}{ \b0\i0\insrsid2316933\charrsid12415214 nd it lasted about four minutes which was a short time indeed.}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid3682527\charrsid12415214 In these circumstances it is necessary to look for \lquote other\rquote evidence direct or circumstantial which goes to support the correctness of identification and to ensure that the witness was not mistaken.}{ \b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid3682527\charrsid12415214 Other evidence may consist of a prior threat to the deceased, naming of the assailants to those who an}{\b0\i0\insrsid4926840\charrsid12415214 swered the alarm and a fabricated alibi etc.}{ \b0\i0\insrsid3682527\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid12068511\charrsid12415214 The appellants denied the offence and they all stated that they heard the mother of the deceased cryi}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 ng about the death of her son. T}{ \b0\i0\insrsid12068511\charrsid12415214 hey did not go to see}{\b0\i0\insrsid2819101\charrsid12415214 and console}{\b0\i0\insrsid12068511\charrsid12415214 her instead they}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 went to Arua Police Station apparently to}{\b0\i0\insrsid12068511\charrsid12415214 }{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 report}{\b0\i0\insrsid2819101\charrsid12415214 the death of her son.}{\b0\i0\insrsid15868245\charrsid12415214 Yet they all stated that he was their brother.}{\b0\i0\insrsid12068511\charrsid12415214 \par The death of the deceased occurred at the time when he had been banished by his clansmen who included the appellants. Instead of leaving the village as he had been ordered he reported the ma}{\b0\i0\insrsid11304719\charrsid12415214 tter to police and his clansmen were arrested. On their being arrested almost the whole clan went to the police to protest and every one was released. The death of the deceased occurred the very evening of their release. It can therefore be said that t here was anger towards the deceased not only for disobeying the \lquote decree\rquote }{\b0\i0\insrsid15868245\charrsid12415214 }{\b0\i0\insrsid5705258\charrsid12415214 and\rquote sentence}{\b0\i0\insrsid15868245\charrsid12415214 \rquote }{ \b0\i0\insrsid11304719\charrsid12415214 of the clan banishing him from the village but also his reporting the matter to police and causing the arrest and detention of his clansmen}{\b0\i0\insrsid8023369\charrsid12415214 .}{ \b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 A threat to his life was }{\b0\i0\insrsid2819101\charrsid12415214 therefore }{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 real.}{\b0\i0\insrsid12068511\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid8023369\charrsid12415214 There are other pieces of evidence which tend to support the correct identification of the appellants as the people who committed the offence. \par No 23021 D/Sgt Mwebaze Paddy (PW1) visited the scene of crime and was the investigating officer. He testified that the suspects who numbered about ten reported themselves to the police. This evidence is supported by that of Asendu }{ \b0\i0\insrsid9398627\charrsid12415214 Patrick (}{\b0\i0\insrsid8023369\charrsid12415214 PW3)}{\b0\i0\insrsid9398627\charrsid12415214 , the}{\b0\i0\insrsid8023369\charrsid12415214 sub-county chief}{\b0\i0\insrsid2819101\charrsid12415214 ,}{ \b0\i0\insrsid8023369\charrsid12415214 Rhino Camp. He testified that when he learnt about the death of the deceased he went to }{\b0\i0\insrsid9398627\charrsid12415214 Arua Police Station to report the matter. At the station the witness met about ten people from Oluvu Obica Parish. They told him that they had killed the deceased. It is the first appellant who spoke to him.}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 The others did not disassociate themselves from his statement. The first appellant\rquote s report to }{\b0\i0\insrsid15560516\charrsid12415214 PW3 is}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 admissible in evidence since he was not a police officer under }{\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 section 2}{\insrsid15560516\charrsid12415214 3}{\b0\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 of the }{\i0\insrsid12531908\charrsid12415214 Evidence Act.}{ \i0\insrsid8023369\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid9398627\charrsid12415214 This witness was not cross-examined by counsel who represented the appellant}{\b0\i0\insrsid4616222\charrsid12415214 s.}{\b0\i0\insrsid9398627\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid4616222\charrsid12415214 We are of the opinion that the conduct of the appellants and }{\b0\i0\insrsid14507543\charrsid12415214 their }{\b0\i0\insrsid4616222\charrsid12415214 failure to challenge incriminating evidence}{ \b0\i0\insrsid15560516\charrsid12415214 against them}{\b0\i0\insrsid4616222\charrsid12415214 is incompatible with their innocence. \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid4804087\charrsid12415214 The learned judge evaluated the evidence before him}{\b0\i0\insrsid14507543\charrsid12415214 properly}{\b0\i0\insrsid4804087\charrsid12415214 and came to the right conclusion by finding the appellants guilty as charged.}{\b0\i0\insrsid15560516\charrsid12415214 \par We have found no major contradictions in the prosecution evidence which could be said to have caused any miscarriage of justice.}{\b0\i0\insrsid4804087\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 Their appeal to this court fails.}{\b0\i0\insrsid2507529\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 As for the sentence, counsel for the appellant submitted that the appellants have been in custody since 2001, they are village mates and therefore they deserve a lenient sentence. \par The prosecution opposed the reduction of the sentence that was imposed. The learned Principal State Attorney submitted that the injuries inflicted on the deceased and the conduct of the appellant does not warrant any reduction of the sentence. \par }{\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 Section 11}{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 of the }{\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 Judicature Act}{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 gives this Court all the powers, authority and jurisdiction vested }{\b0\i0\insrsid5965628\charrsid12415214 in the court of first instance from}{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 which the appeal originally emanated.}{ \b0\i0\insrsid5965628\charrsid12415214 \par }{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 This means as we understand it}{\b0\i0\insrsid5965628\charrsid12415214 ,}{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 that this court is clothed with similar powers as the court of first instance. We feel that in order to save time and expenses that will be incurred by sending the file back to the High Court to }{\b0\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 record mitigati ng factors and impose the appropriate sentence, this court can pass the appropriate sentence under the provisions of the above section.}{\b0\i0\insrsid12205093\charrsid12415214 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4613536 {\b0\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 Consequently we have considered the mitigating factors and the circumstances under which this offence was committed; the sentence}{\b0\i0\insrsid2819101\charrsid12415214 of death}{\b0\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 i}{ \b0\i0\insrsid15868245\charrsid12415214 mposed by the trial judge is}{\b0\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 upheld.}{\b0\i0\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4613536 {\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 Dated this}{\i0\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 23}{\i0\super\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 rd}{ \i0\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 }{\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 day of}{\i0\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 March }{\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 2009}{\i0\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 .}{\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 \par }{\i0\insrsid4613536\charrsid12415214 \par }{\i0\insrsid14230206\charrsid12415214 A. E. N. Mpagi-Bahigeine \par Justice of Appeal \par \par C. K. Byamugisha \par Justice of Appeal \par \par A. S. Nshimye \par Justice of Appeal \par }}