By Aggrey Twesigye
The High Court in Ntungamo District on Tuesday evening convicted and sentenced a mother and her son for the murder of Brason Besigwa Tinbyetaho, a retired roads inspector with the Ntungamo District Local Government.
Lady Justice Lillian Alium Omara presided over the session, in which the deceased’s wife, Tusiime Legina (67), and their son, Julius Muhwezi, both pleaded guilty to participating in the killing of the family head.
According to the charge sheet, the two jointly murdered Tinbyetaho on April 6, 2021, at their home in Kabahambi, Eastern Division, Ntungamo Municipality an incident that shocked the community.
Upon conviction, Tusiime begged the court for leniency, citing old age and her ongoing battle with cancer. She was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Muhwezi, who also pleaded guilty and told court he is a father of six children who have since been left without support, received a 17-year jail term.
While delivering her judgment, Justice Omara condemned the act as “deeply unfortunate,” noting that the wife who should have guided and protected the family participated in ending her husband’s life. She added that it was disturbing that Muhwezi took part in orchestrating the death of the very person he was expected to respect and protect.
The deceased’s brother, Nkwasibwe Aaron Opio, expressed dissatisfaction with the sentences, arguing that the penalties were too lenient and would not deter similar crimes.
He also urged police to bring two other family members Agumya Herbert and Kobugabe Betty, both children of the deceased to court, alleging they were also involved in the murder.
