Kampala socialite and businessman Nasser Nduhukire, better known as Don Nasser, has faced another setback in his ongoing legal battle.
The High Court in Kampala, sitting on Thursday, November 28, denied his bail application, citing the gravity of the charges against him.
Nasser, who is facing serious accusations of drug-related offenses and sexual exploitation of a minor, will remain in Luzira prison for now.
Earlier, Nasser’s lawyers had applied for bail, arguing that he should be granted temporary release to prepare for his defense. However, the prosecution strongly opposed the application, stressing the seriousness of the case and the risk of Nasser fleeing or interfering with witnesses. The court sided with the prosecution, pointing to the severity of the allegations and the need to ensure a fair trial.
The court has adjourned the matter until December 18, when it will again review the possibility of granting Nasser bail. This decision leaves the socialite in a precarious position, both legally and financially, as he now faces more than three weeks in custody before any further decisions can be made.
This development comes at a time when Nasser is reportedly struggling financially to fund his legal defense. Sources suggest that he has sought assistance from Bushenyi tycoon Hassan Basajjabalaba, who is said to have agreed to cover the legal fees, reportedly in exchange for collateral, including Nasser’s tea estate and residence in Bushenyi.
The deal, which remains largely secret, is seen as a lifeline for Nasser, but it also potentially places his assets at significant risk.
The charges against Nasser, which involve allegations of introducing a minor to cocaine and sexually exploiting her with the help of co-accused Promise Ateete, have made him a polarizing figure.
The State has built its case on evidence suggesting that Ateete lured the victim into Nasser’s circle, where the abuse took place. This has further heightened public scrutiny, with critics suggesting that some businessmen, including Basajjabalaba, might exploit the situation for personal gain while claiming to offer assistance.
As the case progresses, the question remains whether the reported deal with Basajjabalaba will truly help Nasser, or if it will entangle him further in legal and financial difficulties.
The outcome of the December 18 bail hearing will be a crucial moment in this high-profile case, determining Nasser’s next steps and possibly influencing the public’s perception of both his personal and legal fortunes.