Muhammad Ssebuwufu, a former city businessman convicted in 2019 for the kidnap and murder of Betty Donah Katusabe, was initially sentenced to 40 years in prison.
Ssebuwufu was convicted by the High Court in 2019 and sentenced to 40 years in prison for his role in the killing of Katusabe, a case that drew widespread public attention.
In 2025, the Court of Appeal reduced his sentence to 18 years after finding the original sentence excessively harsh.
After serving 11 years, he was released following a presidential pardon.
A panel of three justices ruled that while the conviction stood, the original sentence was excessively harsh after re-evaluating the evidence and mitigating factors presented by the defence.
By the time of his release, Ssebuwufu had spent 11 years in prison, including time on remand prior to conviction.
Presidential Pardon
His release follows a presidential pardon granted under the constitutional powers of clemency exercised by Yoweri Museveni.
Under Ugandan law, the President may grant pardons, commute sentences, or remit penalties upon the recommendation of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
Authorities have not publicly detailed the specific grounds for Ssebuwufu’s pardon, but officials confirmed that the release was processed in accordance with legal procedures.
Background to the Case
Ssebuwufu was prosecuted in connection with the abduction and killing of Betty Donah Katusabe, a woman linked to a business dispute involving vehicle ownership. The case sparked national outrage and led to intensified scrutiny of violent crime in urban business circles.
Following his conviction, Ssebuwufu had remained incarcerated at Luzira Prison while pursuing legal appeals before the sentence reduction and subsequent pardon.
Public Reaction
News of his release has generated mixed reactions on social media, with some Ugandans questioning the use of presidential clemency in high-profile criminal cases, while others point to the reduced sentence and time already served.
The development reopens debate over sentencing, appellate review, and the application of the prerogative of mercy in Uganda’s justice system.
