news 1 September 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Kyotera School Fire Case: Two Accused to Defend Themselves
A Masaka High Court judge has ruled that two former students and a vendor accused in the 2018 arson at St. Bernard's Mannya Secondary School, which killed 10 students, must now present their defense. Source: https://observer.ug/news/students-accused-of-burning-kyotera-school-have-a-case-to-answer-court-rules
Two former students from St. Bernard’s Mannya Secondary School in the Kyotera district, along with a local vendor, have been ordered by the Masaka High Court to enter their defense in the case of a devastating 2018 dormitory fire. The blaze tragically claimed the lives of 10 students and destroyed the school’s boys’ dormitory.
Senior Resident Judge Victoria Nakintu Katamba determined that the prosecution has presented sufficient evidence to require Edison Nio, a former Senior Four student, and Alex Mugarura, a chapati vendor, to respond to charges. They face a total of 56 counts, including arson, murder, attempted murder, attempted arson, and malicious damage to property.
The prosecution alleges that Nio, Mugarura, and other unidentified individuals conspired to set the dormitory ablaze on November 11, 2018. The fire resulted in the deaths of 10 students, injuries to others, and significant damage to school property.
Judge Nakintu’s decision followed the prosecution’s conclusion of its case, which involved testimony from 18 witnesses, including school staff and fire survivors. The court considered evidence suggesting Nio and other suspended students remained near the school and were allegedly accommodated by Mugarura, rather than returning home during their suspension. The former head teacher also testified about intelligence regarding retaliatory plans by suspended students.
While the defense argued that no direct evidence linked the accused to the fire and suggested alternative leads, the judge stated that the prosecution’s case raises questions necessitating the accused’s defense. The defense has previously highlighted issues such as the alleged mishandling of juvenile rights and potential administrative conflicts within the school as contributing factors. Some initial suspects have already been acquitted due to insufficient evidence or alibi.
Nio and Mugarura are presumed innocent and will now have the opportunity to present their defense against the charges.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)