Kampala, Uganda – The Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court has set the stage for a major legal showdown as proceedings resume in the high-profile Shs3.8 billion corruption case involving former Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, Geraldine Ssali Busulwa, and several prominent co-accused, including sitting and former Members of Parliament.
According to a hearing notice issued by the court, the matter is scheduled for mention today before Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga. This appearance marks a critical step forward after months of delays caused by procedural hurdles, constitutional challenges, and the absence of prosecution teams. The June 17 mention is expected to pave the way for full trial dates, potentially including a mini-marathon hearing window in September.
The accused persons include:
Geraldine Ssali Busulwa – Former PS and Accounting Officer
Hon. Michael Mawanda Maranga – Igara East MP and Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) Director for Mobilization
Hon. Ignatius Mudimi Wamakuyu – Elgon County MP
Hon. Paul Akamba – Former Busiki County MP
Julius Taitankoko Kirya – Lawyer
Leonard Kavundira – Principal Cooperative Officer
Prosecutors allege that the group conspired to defraud the government of approximately Shs3.8 billion intended as compensation for war-loss victims channeled through the Buyaka Growers Cooperative Society Limited. Charges include conspiracy to defraud, causing financial loss to the government, abuse of office, and related offenses.
The case has been mired in legal complexities for over a year, with previous adjournments linked to constitutional petitions and prosecution scheduling conflicts. A recent Constitutional Court ruling that struck down provisions allowing automatic acquittal in cases of rights violations has cleared a significant obstacle, allowing the trial to proceed in earnest.
Legal observers anticipate intense arguments as the defense and prosecution clash over evidence related to the management and disbursement of the cooperative funds. The case has drawn widespread public interest due to the involvement of high-ranking public officials and lawmakers, raising questions about accountability in the handling of public resources meant for vulnerable communities affected by past conflicts.
As Uganda’s Anti-Corruption Court continues to tackle high-stakes graft cases, the resumption of this trial underscores the judiciary’s commitment to combating impunity. Further developments are expected following today’s mention, with analysts predicting a lengthy but landmark hearing that could set precedents for similar financial crime prosecutions.
