Jubilation in Kitgum as Hon. Bosmic William Otim granted bail.Acholi Praised Kilak MP Gilbert Olanya.
BY OKIDI PATRICK OCAMOYITDYEL
KITGUM, UGANDA–There was jubilation in parts of Northern Uganda on Tuesday after Presidential Advisor and Chief Northern NRM mobilizer, Hon. William Bosmic Otim, alias ‘Lawi Awobe”, was released on bail.
The Kitgum Chief Magistrate’s Court granted Mr. Otim cash bail of UGX 2 million, one week after he was remanded to Kitgum Government Prison.
On Tuesday, 21st July 2026, Chief Magistrate Robert Ekirita ordered Mr. Otim not to discuss the case publicly or on social media in order not to interfere with court proceedings. He will return to court on 4th August 2026.
His sureties were Kilak South MP Dr. Gilbert Olanya, his wife Ms. Milfrey Adong, Mr. Bernard Ocaya Canogura of Olangkak, fellow musician Alex Ojera Morugut, and his uncle Mr. Felix Odida. Each executed a non-cash bond of UGX 2 million.
Mr. Otim is charged with causing grievous harm, contrary to Section 219 of the Penal Code Act. Prosecution alleges that on 3rd May 2026, he and others still at large assaulted fellow artist and blogger Okello Alfred Joe, popularly known as KD Kristo, at Corner Mission in Pager Division, Kitgum Municipality.
State Attorney Yusuf Ssozi did not oppose the revised bail application after Otim’s lawyers, Robert Okot and Febius Ayella, presented verified proof of residence. Although the complainant raised safety concerns, the court said those would be addressed during trial.
MP Olanya cautioned social media users against discussing matters before court, reiterating the magistrate’s warning.
The ruling sparked celebrations. In Lamit, Tumangu, a woman slaughtered a chicken to celebrate the news. Several artists and supporters who spoke to this reporter said Dr. Olanya deserved to be recognized as an “Acholi Hero” for driving from Kampala to Kitgum to stand surety for Mr. Otim.
Supporters of Hon. William Bosmic Otim jubilated outside Kitgum Chief Magistrate’s Court after he was granted bail on Tuesday. Photo Courtesy.
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