By Mukembo Wilfred
The Constitutional Court has granted a request to consolidate two separate petitions challenging the constitutionality of the amended Computer Misuse Act, 2022.
A panel of five judges Lady Justice Irene Mulyagonja, Lady Justice Ketrah Kitariisibwa, Justice John Mike Musisi, Justice Jesse Byaruhanga Rugyema, and Lady Justice Esta Nambayo ruled that, given the similarities in the provisions being contested, there was no reason to deny the petitioners’ request for consolidation, especially as the Attorney General did not raise any objection.
The consolidated petitions are Application No. 34 of 2022, filed by Alternative Digitalk and 12 others, and Application No. 37 of 2022, filed by the Human Rights Network for Journalists and 13 others.
The Court also set timelines for conferencing, following a request by the Attorney General for additional time to amend their response in line with the revised editions of the law.
The Attorney General has been directed to submit the amended response to the Court by May 12, 2025, while the petitioners have until May 20, 2025, to file any rejoinders.
The Constitutional Court will issue its ruling on notice.
The petitioners are represented by a legal team that includes Eron Kiiza , George Musisi, Peter Arinaitwe, Kakuru Tumusiime, and Aboneka Michael.
Notable petitioners include Hon. Winnie Kiiza, former Leader of the Opposition, Mukose Arnold Anthony, Programmes Director at Alternative Digitalk; lawyer and activist Namirembe Angella; and lawyer Esomu Simon Peter.
