Uganda’s High Court has ordered an investigation into allegations of money laundering against Speaker of Parliament Anita Among.
Justice Lawrence Gidudu, head of the High Court Anti-Corruption Division, directed the Chief Magistrate to expedite the probe and determine its substance within three months.
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The allegations centre on claims that Ms. Among acquired properties worth millions of dollars through corrupt means between 2016 and 2023.
The properties in question include:
- A luxury residence in Kampala’s Nakasero district
- A house in Ministers’ Village, Ntinda
- A 3-star hotel in Kyaddondo
- A rural residence in Bukedea district
- Several luxury vehicles
Lawyer Male Mabirizi filed the complaint, accusing Ms. Among of defrauding taxpayers.
Initially, the Chief Magistrate dismissed the case, citing lack of jurisdiction and insufficient evidence.
However, Justice Gidudu ruled that the Chief Magistrate erred in procedure and incorrectly placed the burden of proof on Mr. Mabirizi.
“The magistrate must inquire into the complaint, potentially consulting with local authorities or directing police investigations,” Justice Gidudu stated.
The Anti-Money Laundering Act grants jurisdiction to the High Court, but the Chief Magistrate must first process the complaint.
Ms. Among has not publicly commented on the allegations.
