KAMPALA, Uganda — Nine officials from the Ministry of Finance have petitioned the Anti-Corruption Court to drop charges against them related to an alleged 60 billion shilling heist from the Bank of Uganda.
The accused, led by interdicted accountant general Lawrence Ssemakula, argue that the state has failed to commence a trial since they were first charged last year. Defense attorneys filed the request for dismissal, stating that the lack of prosecution has violated the defendants’ fundamental right to a speedy trial.
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In a session on Feb. 10, 2026, the defense contended that while the officials have complied with all court requirements, the prosecution continues to delay proceedings by claiming investigations are still ongoing. The defense argues this prolonged delay causes undue prejudice and amounts to an abuse of the court process.
Justice David Makumbi directed both the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the defense team to submit written arguments regarding the dismissal request this week. The parties are scheduled to return to court on March 3 for the adoption of those submissions.
The group faces various charges, including money laundering, electronic fraud and causing financial loss. Prosecutors allege that Ssemakula and Jennifer Muhuruzi, the commissioner of treasury services, failed to protect public funds, resulting in a loss of nearly 24 billion shillings.
Specific allegations include the diversion of funds intended for the International Development Association. Prosecutors claim IT officer Tony Yawe altered payment instructions to redirect 22.5 billion shillings to a private entity, Roadway Company Limited. Another specialist, Mark Kasiiku, is accused of manipulating files to send hundreds of thousands of dollars to an unauthorized firm in London.
The nine officials, who include accountants and IT specialists, currently remain free on bail while they await the court’s decision on whether the case will proceed.
