Mercy Timbitwire, 38, Public Relations Officer at the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretariat, has been charged and remanded to Luzira Prison for assaulting a traffic officer.
She appeared before Chief Magistrate Elias Kakooza at Nakawa Court.
Timbitwire denied three charges: reckless driving, failure to comply with police directives, and driving without third-party insurance.
Prosecution states that on October 18, 2024, she drove recklessly while using her phone and refused to stop when directed by a police officer at Makerere University Business School.
Additionally, Timbitwire and Benardine Abangire, 34, Administrator at Berger Rite Holdings, face robbery and assault charges. They allegedly stole two mobile phones and an EPS printer from Police Officer Charles Makawa, valued at 14 million shillings, and assaulted him while executing his duty.
The duo denied the charges. State Attorney Mariam Kuruthum requested a hearing date, stating that investigations are complete. Chief Magistrate Elias Kakooza remanded them until November 4 for their bail application hearing.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, raising questions about accountability among public officials. The viral video showing Timbitwire assaulting the traffic officer has fueled public debate on the conduct of individuals in positions of power.
The case has highlighted the need for officials to adhere to the law and respect those enforcing it. The outcome of this case will be closely watched, as it sets a precedent for accountability and justice .
