The State prosecution in the treason charge involving Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) party official said on Wednesday that investigations into the matter was still incomplete.
Oola Dan Odiya, UPCs Deputy National Secretary for Mobilization on Wednesday morning appeared before Gulu Magistrate’s court presided by Paul Owino. It was the third time that Oola was appearing before the same court for the mention of his case.
Paul Wepondi, the State Prosecutor told court that investigations into the matter was incomplete and asked for an adjournment.
The prosecutor’s request was granted by the magistrate and Mr Oola and two other male suspects who were charged alongside him were further remanded to Gulu Cuntil July 27, 2016 when they are expected to appear for the last adjournment.
Oola was arrested and charged with treason, concealment of information, two counts of murder and one count of attempted murder.
The charges relate to an attack in May this year on an army installation in Opit in Lakwana Sub county, Gulu district which left two people dead including an army officer.
During a press briefing after the court session, Olara Otunu, the outgoing UPC President demanded that state should fast-track the trial of Oola.
Otunnu said it is the third time that Oola is appearing before court for mention of his case without the trial itself beginning. Otunnu, a former United Nations diplomat and a lawyer himself said: ‘‘Justice delayed is justice denied.’’
Otunu expressed dismay and said that after the state slapped serious charges against the UPC party leader, the case has not been heard, something he said infringes on Odiya’s rights to receive fair trial.
Otunu insists that Odiya should not be disadvantaged on the ground that he is a member of the Opposition
Since his arrest in early June, Odiya has complained of ill health.
