IGG Withdraws Charges Against Kitutu's Co Accused In UGX 1.5B Loss – Plus News
The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has withdrawn corruption charges against three suspects who were facing trial alongside Karamoja Affairs Minister Mary Gorreti Kitutu Kimono. The charges were related to the alleged misappropriation of Shillings 1.5 billion intended for peacekeeping activities. Those set free are Geoffrey Sseremba, Deogratius Masagazi, and Tracy Atuhirwe, all officials from the Office of the Prime Minister.
On Tuesday, Daisy Acio, an Inspectorate Officer from the IG tendered a letter before Acting Senior Principal Grade One Magistrate Abert Asiimwe, discontinuing proceedings against the trio. The charges were amended, and Kitutu remained as the only suspect on the charge sheet. The IG claims that between February and June 2022, while serving as Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Kitutu failed to conduct various peace-building activities in the Karamoja sub-region, resulting in a financial loss of Shillings 1.5 billion to the government.
The IG had accused the accountants of authorizing cash payments of Shillings 2.2 billion to various staff within the Office of the Prime Minister, including Kitutu, which they allegedly obtained for their benefit after Atuhirwe failed to properly manage and account for it. During the court proceedings, the formerly accused persons responded to the withdrawal by expressing gratitude, with Sseremba appearing emotional, possibly due to relief or frustration over the ordeal of being falsely accused.
Kitutu’s lawyer, Jude Byamukama requested a three-week adjournment, citing her COVID-19 diagnosis and isolation since March 12th, 2024. The case has been adjourned to April 30th, 2024, for Kitutu’s prosecution, while her co-accused have been discharged. In response to the withdrawal, Kitutu’s lawyer criticized the IGG, alleging misuse of the law to target individuals for personal reasons.
“We are not surprised that 9 months later, the IGG now has a new charge sheet retaining her intended target. We knew from long ago that the IGG would abuse the law and disregard our client’s due process rights in a bid to create some charge against her. It is a sad development that such an important anti-corruption body should be used to fight people’s personal wars,” said Byamukama.
Last month, Anti-Corruption Court Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga okayed Kitutu’s Prosecution in a separate case file from the iron sheets case. However, the Minister has since appealed against the decision arguing that her role as a Minister involves policy-making rather than direct implementation, and she maintains that she was not directly involved in the technical aspects of the activities in question.
“I am not a technical person and do not therefore get involved in the technical aspects of this role. My role as a Minister is to give policy guidance and not to get directly involved in the implementation of activities. I am sure this is well known to the IGG who herself was a Cabinet Minister less than two years ago,” she said.
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Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, has officially announced the decision to divest the Uganda Police Airwing of its fixed-wing aircraft (P180 Piaggio Avanti II Evo).
Enanga explained that the decision stems from the aircraft’s failure to yield positive outcomes despite its capability to remain airborne for up to 8 hours, providing aerial support.
“Since its acquisition, it has only flown a total of 117 hours due to limitations such as unsuitability for non-tarmacked runways, costly mandatory inspections, insurance, and maintenance, with no discernible benefits realized,” stated Enanga.
He added, “The UPF is considering the disposal of the Paggio Avanti II Evo and the procurement of a new-generation compatible aircraft through trade-in procurement methods, adhering to PPDA laws and regulations.”
Acquired in June 2019 at a cost of USD 7.84 million, the Airwing currently operates four aircraft, including three helicopters and one fixed-wing aircraft, 5X-PEF/PI80 Piaggio Avanti II Evo-9 seater. During 2023, the Airwing responded to numerous incidents across various regions, making it an integral part of policing in Uganda.
The Uganda Police Airwing provides aerial patrols, search and rescue, rapid response, troop transportation, aerial surveillance, VIP transportation, medevac, and casevac.
Enanga noted that the Minister of Internal Affairs was briefed on the matter and raised no objections to the disposal of the unserviceable aircraft and the procurement of a new compatible helicopter.
“A Composite Board of Survey inspected the aircraft on October 19, 2022, valuing it at USD 4,271,709.06. The valuation considered factors such as depreciated replacement cost, technical condition, blue book values, and current market prices,” Enanga explained.
He emphasized that replacing the fixed-wing aircraft will enhance the Police Airwing’s operational capabilities. Several aircraft types have been evaluated, considering manufacturers and operational requirements specific to the Uganda Police.
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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni emphasized the importance of acknowledging individuals who contribute to society’s advancement, stressing that their efforts should be remembered and appreciated.
During the Elders Mentorship/Leadership Awards luncheon 2024 held at State House Entebbe on Thursday, President Museveni commended Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo and his team for their initiative in honoring outstanding contributors.
He underscored the significance of recognizing excellence, stating that failing to do so could discourage others from striving for excellence.
Organized by the Office of the Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Duties, chaired by Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, the ceremony aimed to celebrate individuals who have made significant positive impacts on Uganda’s development. Under the theme “Modelling the right behaviour for the youth of Africa in the 21st Century,” the event honored 16 elders for their remarkable service to the nation.
In addition to acknowledging the awardees, the ceremony served as a platform to pay tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Jacob Oulanyah, former Speaker of Parliament, for his dedication to public service.
President Museveni highlighted the importance of accurate mentorship, stressing the role of understanding society’s dynamics and the significance of science and technology in social progress. He credited the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government’s progress to its ability to diagnose societal issues accurately and provide solutions.
Reflecting on the late Rt. Hon. Jacob Oulanyah’s journey, President Museveni praised his intellectual openness and commitment to national development, noting his transition from the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) to the NRM.
Vice President H.E Jessica Alupo commended the awardees for their contributions to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, aligning with President Museveni’s advocacy for youth involvement in Africa’s development.
Delivering a keynote speech, Hon. Tagesse Chafo Dullo, Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives of Ethiopia, extended gratitude to Uganda for its hospitality and emphasized the importance of empowering African youth.
Hon. Norbert Mao, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, thanked Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo for organizing the event and emphasized the importance of leadership driven by a mission rather than a position.
Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo reiterated the importance of learning from past exemplary leaders and encouraged the youth to uphold integrity and serve their country diligently.
Representing the late Speaker’s family, Hon. Andrew Ojok expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his support and emphasized Oulanyah’s legacy of integrity and reconciliation.
Mr. Nathan Okori, the late Oulanyah’s father, expressed gratitude to the government for honoring his son’s memory.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including former Prime Ministers, government ministers, and other officials, demonstrating the collective commitment to honoring exemplary service and fostering intergenerational leadership.
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Monica Mbabazi is a celebrated multimedia Ugandan Journalist currently working as a news anchor on Top Radio and BTM Television. She is also a writer with Plus News Uganda. More by Monica Mbabazi
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President Museveni Engages With Rwenzori Bishops Ahead Of Martyrs Day Celebrations – Plus News
On Thursday, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni met with a delegation of Bishops from the Rwenzori Dioceses at State House, Entebbe.
The meeting, marked by discussions and exchange, focused on the forthcoming Church of Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations scheduled for June 3, 2024.
Led by the Rt. Rev. Bishop Reuben Kisembo, the clerics briefed President Museveni on the progress of the event preparations. Expressing gratitude, Bishop Kisembo, representing the Bishops from the greater Rwenzori sub-region, acknowledged the government of Uganda’s continuous support and partnership with the Church of Uganda.
In response, President Museveni affirmed his commitment to ensuring the success of the celebrations, pledging support to the Church. However, he also urged religious leaders to mobilize believers towards embracing wealth creation initiatives as a means to combat poverty.
Highlighting persistent challenges, President Museveni emphasized the importance of addressing issues such as subsistence farming, land fragmentation due to inheritance practices, and the necessity for proper enterprise selection. He specifically cited the potential for coffee and apple cultivation in regions like Kasese, leveraging favorable terrain and climate conditions.
This year, the Rwenzori cluster is set to host the Uganda Martyrs Day celebrations at the Anglican Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo, under the theme: “United for Sustainable Services and Growth.”
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Kimera Abdul is a Senior Journalist with Plus News Uganda. He identifies as an adaptable and enthusiastic individual who works to inspire generations. He posses a Diploma and Broadcast journalism and has… More by Kimera Abdu