Kampala, Uganda – The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has formally withdrawn all charges against Herbert Anderson Burora, the former Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RDC) for Rubaga Division, who had been embroiled in a high-profile legal battle over alleged hate speech and malicious communication targeting Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among.
The decision was confirmed today morning by Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi, following the presentation of a withdrawal form signed by Chief State Attorney Joan Keko on behalf of the DPP, Justice Jane Frances Abodo. The form effectively ended legal proceedings that had dragged on for nearly a year.
The charges against Burora stemmed from several controversial social media posts, allegedly published on X (formerly Twitter), where he accused Speaker Anita Among of misconduct and misusing public office.
Prosecutors had argued that the posts violated provisions of the Computer Misuse Act, amounting to hate speech and malicious communication.
Initially charged in 2024, Burora faced six separate cases, all of which were dropped simultaneously.
Though the DPP has not publicly explained the grounds for the withdrawal, legal experts cite insufficient evidence, increasing public scrutiny, and possible political recalibrations as likely factors.
Reacting to the news on X, Burora described the past year as one of intense personal struggle and political isolation.
“After a year as a victim of conscience, DPP has withdrawn all the 6 cases against me,” Burora posted.
“I’ve had a sickening year that could have left me under the rubble. But some people are like seeds, they are buried to germinate.”
In a statement both emotional and defiant, Burora thanked unnamed allies who had supported him throughout the ordeal and vowed to continue advocating for justice and accountability in Uganda.
“We shall continue to fight in a manner that is deserving, but also ensure fellow countrymen and women get the services they need.”
He also hinted at a possible political comeback, stating: “We now have a bigger task ahead to bring home the Constituency. Let’s focus on this win too.”
Burora’s case reignited a national conversation about freedom of expression, digital rights, and the weaponization of cyber laws in Uganda. The Computer Misuse Act, under which he was charged, has faced heavy criticism from civil society groups, media watchdogs, and opposition leaders, who argue that it is increasingly used to criminalize dissent.
“The charges were not just legal, they were political. We have seen a disturbing trend of targeting individuals who speak out against abuse of power, especially online.”
International rights organizations have also highlighted Uganda’s growing list of digital prisoners of conscience, warning that the environment for free and open discourse is becoming increasingly restrictive.
Burora rose to national prominence earlier this year when he resigned from his post as Deputy RDC for Rubaga Division, citing discomfort with internal government operations, especially regarding transparency and service delivery.
In his resignation letter, Burora declared that he could no longer serve in silence and wanted the freedom to speak as a private citizen.
Since then, he has become a vocal figure on social media, frequently addressing issues such as public corruption, accountability, and poor governance, topics that many believe placed him at odds with the political establishment.
His articulate and bold commentary gained him both loyal supporters and powerful detractors.
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