Buganda history storyteller Magala Balikyewunya, popularly known as Mzee Magala, has been handed a financial sentence by a Luweero court in a case arising from a land dispute.
The court reportedly ordered him to pay a fine of Shs3 million instead of serving an immediate prison term. He was also directed to pay Shs30 million in compensation to the complainant.
However, the sentence carries a serious consequence if he fails to pay the fine: Magala faces three years in prison.
The decision was delivered on November 12, 2026, with the court reportedly taking his health condition, particularly his diabetes, into consideration when determining the sentence.
Mzee Magala’s Health Considered During Sentencing
Frank Ntambi welcomed the ruling in a post on X, describing the non-custodial sentence as a relief to Magala’s family, friends and supporters.
“The Chief Magistrate has handed him a non-custodial sentence, taking into consideration his health condition, particularly his diabetes,” Ntambi wrote.
Magala had been held on remand at Butuntumula Government Prison since November 5, 2026, before the latest court decision.
What Led to Mzee Magala’s Court Case?
The case stems from a confrontation that reportedly occurred on April 13, 2022, at Christopher and David Farm in Kanyale Village, Nakaseke District.
During the incident, a farm manager reportedly sustained gunshot injuries.
Magala’s court proceedings followed the incident, which had earlier seen him remanded on charges linked to attempted murder.
The latest ruling means he has avoided immediate imprisonment, but his financial obligations remain substantial, with the Shs3 million fine and Shs30 million compensation order.
The case now places attention on whether Magala will meet the court’s financial requirements to avoid the possibility of a three-year prison term.