Mathew Kanyamunyu Pleads Not Guilty to Murder of Akena

City businessman, Mathew Kanyamunyu has pleaded not guilty to murdering Kenneth Akena, a social worker.

On Tuesday, Mathew his brother Joseph Kanyamunyu and Cynthia Munwangari (girlfriend to Mathew) were arraigned before the High Court presided over by Justice Steven Mubiru.

Mathew entered a plea of not guilty to the alleged murder of Akena in November 2016.

His brother, Joseph also pleaded not guilty to the accessory of murder charge. Prosecution alleges that Joseph removed the pistol said to have been used in the murder of Akena from his brother’s car.

Cynthia Munwangari who is jointly accused with Mathew asked court that she be tried in the French language.

Court has fixed on January 21, 2019 as date for hearing. Their bail has also been extended until then.

Prosecution alleges that Kanyamunyu on November 12, 2016 while on Kampala-Jinja Road near Malik Car Bond, opposite Uganda Manufacturers Association offices at Lugogo Nakawa, caused Akena’s death by shooting with malice aforethought.

Mathew and Cynthia claim they only acted out of good will to help transport Akena who was badly bleeding to Norvic Hospital in Kampala.

In October last year, High Court granted bail to Kanyamunyu on grounds that staying in detention would have a financial implication on government. The 5 sureties presented by Kanyamunyu’s lawyers were also found to be substantial and eligible.