The tragic case of Dr. Gideon Simiyu Wamasebo, a Ugandan doctor brutally murdered and buried in a shallow grave along River Isiukhu in Malava constituency, takes a significant step forward today.
The decision to proceed aims to spare witnesses from Uganda the burden of unnecessary travel expenses and inconvenience.
The family of the late Dr. Wamasebo, who met his untimely demise in Kenya on February 7 last year, has been summoned for a crucial marathon hearing in the murder case against Kelvin Shatome, a self-proclaimed medicine man.
Despite extradition orders failing to materialize, Shatome, along with five other Ugandan co-accused, faces justice.
The accused include Kennedy Murambafu, Robert Chatome, Saleh Sulaiman, Brian Nsubuga and Ester Lauren.
Justice Patrick Otieno, presiding over the case, granted permission to proceed in the absence of the co-accused.
This allowed the hearing to commence today.
This decision comes after Shatome’s lawyer, Victor Onsango, raised objections, citing surprise evidence presented by the prosecution.
Justice Otieno ordered the prosecution to provide the defense with any additional evidence to ensure a fair trial.
State lawyer Natasha Chala provided a summary of the case before the court, outlining the tragic events leading to Dr. Wamasebo’s demise.
Dr. Wamasebo, a distinguished 60-year-old Ugandan doctor, sought medical assistance in Kenya in February last year.
However, he tragically fell victim to the deceitful practices of the 23-year-old self-proclaimed healer, Kelvin Shatome.
Chala revealed that Dr. Wamasebo, facing various health challenges including swollen feet and high blood pressure, sought assistance from Shatome, who promised prosperity.
Despite Shatome’s initial pretense of help, he resorted to extortion during the purported healing rituals.
Shatome considered Dr. Wamasebo a lucrative client.
As Dr. Wamasebo’s health failed to improve, he attempted to sever ties with Shatome.
In retaliation, Shatome kidnapped the doctor, demanding a ransom from his family, including three cows, car and property deeds.
Dr. Wamasebo’s family reported his disappearance to Ugandan authorities, prompting a cross-border search.
Tragically, Dr. Wamasebo’s lifeless body was discovered buried in a shallow grave along River Isiukhu in Kenya.
Thus sparking a joint investigation by Ugandan and Kenyan authorities.
Incriminating evidence linking Shatome to the crime, including the doctor’s property found in Shatome’s residences in Mbale,Uganda, and Malava, Kenya, led to his arrest as the prime suspect in the murder case.
As the trial progresses, justice remains the primary focus, ensuring closure for Dr. Wamasebo’s family.
As a result, accountability for those responsible for his senseless death ought to prevail.
