After spending several months in prison, Queen Kaftah, an 18-year-old Trinity College Nabweru student, has finally been released. The imprisonment came as a result of her conviction for aggravated torture against 15-year-old Pretty Nicole.
The court handed down the three-year sentence after a viral video emerged, showing Queen Kaftah and her friends assaulting Pretty Nicole on January 9, 2023, alleging that she had taken her boyfriend.
Dissatisfied with the verdict, Queen Kaftah decided to appeal, arguing that the punishment was both fair and severe. Her defense claimed that the trial committed legal and factual errors by failing to provide adequate legal counsel, resulting in a miscarriage of justice.
Recently, on July 21, 2023, Hon. Lady Justice Margaret Mutonyi of the Kampala High Court delivered the final ruling, overturning the decision of Kira Court Chief Magistrate Roseline Nsenge. The judge declared that even though the appellant pleaded guilty, the prosecution had not needed to summon any witnesses to prove the charges against her.
Furthermore, the Hon. Lady Justice Margaret Mutonyi highlighted that the chief magistrate had completely disregarded Queen Kaftah’s constitutional right to a fair trial. Instead, her judgment appeared clouded by emotions, leading to an unfair meting out of punishment and neglecting the crucial legal provisions related to representation.
The verdict marks a significant turning point for Queen Kaftah and Pretty Nicole, as justice finally prevailed in this troubling case. Let us hope that this decision serves as a reminder that everyone, regardless of their background or influence, should receive a fair trial and just treatment under the law.
