A self-proclaimed bishop and student at Cavendish University Uganda has been committed to the High Court for trial after prosecutors alleged he offered a 21-year-old barber Shs20 million to become his sexual partner before allegedly assaulting him.
Reuben Turyasingura, 45, who reportedly heads Serenity Foundation Ministries in western Uganda, appeared before Ritah Neumbe Kidasa, the Chief Magistrate at Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court, where he was formally committed to stand trial at the High Court after investigations were completed.
According to the prosecution led by Chief State Attorney Joan Keko, the alleged victim is a 21-year-old barber from Kikulu Zone in Kawempe Division whose identity has been withheld to protect him from stigma.
How the Alleged Incident Happened
Court documents indicate that Turyasingura reportedly met the barber at a salon in Kawempe where the young man offered shaving, scrubbing and massage services. The two later became acquaintances after the bishop frequently visited the salon.
Prosecutors allege that on December 28 last year, Turyasingura informed the barber he was travelling from Rukiga District and would arrive late in Kampala. He reportedly asked the young man to escort him to his home.
The barber agreed and met him at Kitaka stage in Kawempe around midnight before proceeding to the bishop’s residence.
While there, the two reportedly entered the bedroom where tea was served by a houseboy identified as Brian Mwesigwa.
Shs20 Million Offer
According to the prosecution summary, Turyasingura allegedly asked the barber to become his sexual partner and promised to pay him Shs20 million.
However, the young man reportedly rejected the offer.
Prosecutors claim that after the refusal, the accused forcefully grabbed the victim and allegedly committed a sexual act against him.
Court records indicate the victim later managed to escape from the room after the door was opened by the houseboy who had come to clean the house.
Fear and Delay in Reporting
The barber reportedly did not immediately raise an alarm due to fear of stigma and embarrassment, particularly because he was known in the area.
However, when he failed to report to work the following day, a friend became concerned and later advised him to report the matter to police.
The case was first filed at Kikaya Police Station before being transferred to Kira Road Police Station for further investigation.
Medical Evidence
Medical examination using Police Form 3 reportedly found bruises and a laceration, with the victim complaining of pain in the waist and back following the alleged assault.
Investigators who visited the scene also reportedly recovered several items including a 200ml bottle of olive oil with yellow liquid, a blue towel and mobile phones.
Accused Denies Charges
Turyasingura was later arrested and charged with homosexuality, an offence he denies.
The prosecution says it intends to rely on several pieces of evidence during trial, including:
the complainant’s medical report a search certificate dated December 30 a sketch plan of the scene and medical examination results of the accused.
Court also heard that medical evaluation found the accused to be of sound mind.
Sent to Luzira Pending Trial
Following the committal proceedings, the magistrate ordered that Turyasingura be remanded to Luzira Prison as he awaits the next criminal session of the High Court where the trial will begin.
What the Law Says
Under the Anti-Homosexuality Act 2023, same-sex relations are criminalised in Uganda.
The law prescribes life imprisonment for homosexuality, while aggravated homosexuality may attract the death penalty upon conviction. The Act also criminalises promotion of homosexuality and related activities.
If convicted, Turyasingura could face severe penalties under the country’s strict anti-homosexuality laws.
The High Court will determine the outcome of the case once the trial begins
