“She Locked Us Out While Torturing My Baby” – Father Tells Court Heartbreaking Story

A housemaid has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for torturing a four-year-old girl in Kikoko Zone, Kira Municipality, Wakiso District. Precious Tumuhirwe, 35, pleaded guilty to the charges after a phone recording revealed her brutal actions, including beating, biting, and banging the child’s head.

The prosecution, led by Ms. Cate Basuuta, emphasized the severity of the offense and its breach of international human rights laws. “The victim’s age and dependency amplified the brutality of this act. The convict demonstrated no remorse, even fleeing the scene while neighbors struggled to help the child,” Ms. Basuuta argued.

The victim was hospitalized but continues to exhibit behavioral changes, including fearfulness and a refusal to leave vehicles. The court was told that Tumuhirwe’s actions were premeditated, as she locked the door and refused to open it despite neighbors’ pleas.

In her defense, Ms. Hellen Namutamba requested leniency, noting that Tumuhirwe is a first-time offender and a mother supporting her eight-year-old daughter. She also highlighted Tumuhirwe’s apology to the victim’s father.

Chief Magistrate Shallon Niwaha weighed the arguments carefully. While acknowledging the convict’s guilty plea and lack of prior offenses, she stressed the gravity of torturing a defenseless child. “The effects of such torture are devastating and long-lasting. The convict’s actions were premeditated and demonstrated a chilling lack of humanity,” the magistrate stated.

Though the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act provides for life imprisonment, the court imposed a 40-year sentence as a deterrent. This case underscores the urgent need for justice in protecting Uganda’s children from such horrifying acts of cruelty.

The ruling serves as a stark reminder of the critical role the law plays in safeguarding vulnerable members of society.