By Our Reporter
This Monday, the Chief Magistrates’ Court of Buganda Road in Kampala will witness a trial of profound significance as Juma Akankwasa, Chairperson of the New Taxi Park Vendors Group, stands accused of attempted murder.
This trial, Uganda v. Juma Akankwasa Criminal Offence No. 648 of 2020, not only holds the potential to impact Juma’s life but also carries profound implications for the rights of street vendors operating in and around the New Taxi Park in Kampala.
In July 2020, KCCA conducted a law enforcement an operation leading to a scuffle between KCCA officers and street vendors leaving both Mutebi Lameck, a law enforcement officer and Juma injured. However, Juma was cherry-picked and charged with attempted murder contrary to Section 204 of the Penal Code Act. 120, an offence that attracts a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Juma Akankwasa has long been a passionate advocate for the rights of street vendors, dedicating himself to their cause through his position as Chairperson of the New Taxi Park Vendors Group.
This charitable organization or association has played a pivotal role in championing the rights of street vendors and advocating for their fair treatment.
As a street vendor himself, Juma understands firsthand the challenges faced by this vibrant community. His leadership has been instrumental in various initiatives aimed at securing public spaces for street vendors. In January, Juma, alongside other street leaders, actively participated in an initiative focused on ensuring access to public spaces for street vendors.
However, Juma’s unwavering commitment to the rights of street vendors has not come without adversity. He was among the courageous street vendors who challenged the ban and forced evictions imposed by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Resident City Commissioner, and the then Security Minister in the High Court (Civil Division)- its outcome will have a bearing on the lives over million street vendors operating in across the country.
If convicted, he could face life imprisonment, a consequence that not only threatens his personal well-being but also sends a chilling message to all street vendors striving to make a livelihood in an already challenging environment.
Sophia Nabbosa, the Executive Director of Juakali Initiative that advocates for street vendors rights and other informal workers’ rights and supporting Juma’s defence intimated that the trial of Juma Akwankwasa is a make or break for street vendors. “Juma is an embodiment of the daily struggles of street vendors. He is one of those voices speaking for street vendors this country. We can’t afford seeing him behind bars for the rest of his life. It will be the biggest dent to the street vendor community”.
Juma will be represented by Advocate Amiah Namala, the Projects and Legal Officer at Juakali Initiative.
As the courtroom doors open this monday, the defense will mount a defense to challenge the allegations of attempted murder against Juma. Through this trial, the broader issues faced by street vendors will come to the forefront, highlighting the need for fair treatment, access to public spaces, and recognition of their contributions to society.
The outcome of this trial holds profound implications for the rights and livelihoods of street vendors across Uganda. It is a pivotal moment where justice, fairness, and the importance of inclusive urban economies intersect.
