A former security guard has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for the murder of businessman Ahamed Tamale. The decision came after an appeal reduced his initial sentence.
Bosco Ogwang, also known as Daniel Komakech, and four other security guards followed Tamale in his car to the home of his mother, Hajjati Zawedde, in Ntinda zone, Seeta Mukono. Once Tamale arrived at the gate, Ogwang and his accomplices attacked him. They assaulted Tamale and then shot him. They also stole his property, including his phone.
On May 16, 2024, the Court of Appeal justices Geoffrey Kiryabwire, Muzamiru Kibeedi, and Monica Mugenyi decided to reduce Ogwang’s sentence from 39 years to 25 years. They found the original sentence too harsh and excessive.
The justices explained that Ogwang had pleaded guilty, which saved the court time and resources that would have been spent on a full trial. “The appeal is hereby partially allowed, and accordingly, we set aside the sentence of 39 years’ imprisonment for murder and substitute it with a 25-year jail term,” directed Justice Kiryabwire.
In addition to the murder charge, Ogwang was also sentenced for aggravated robbery. His initial 29-year sentence for this charge was reduced to 20 years.
Ogwang had confessed to planning and participating in both the robbery and the murder in his charge and caution statement. During the hearing, Dan Mudhumbusi represented Ogwang on a state brief, while prosecutor Gladys Nyanzi represented the state.
The court’s decision to reduce Ogwang’s sentence took into account his guilty plea and the resources saved by avoiding a full trial. This case highlights the legal process and the considerations that can lead to adjustments in sentencing.
