TV10 Investigative Special Report
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A clear abuse of power and corruption
Episode Two
Uganda’s fight against corruption is ongoing, but the judicial system still faces significant challenges. The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) reports that corruption costs Uganda approximately 9.7 trillion shillings annually.
Recently, Marlon Agaba, executive director of the Anti-Corruption Coalition Uganda, criticized the low conviction rates in corruption cases. He noted that fewer than 5% of those arrested are actually convicted, and recovering stolen money remains a significant challenge.
Despite these challenges, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has made efforts to improve its performance. The ODPP has achieved a conviction rate of 72% over the last three years, up from 61.75%. Additionally, the Anti-Corruption Department has an average conviction rate of 82%.
The ODPP has also taken steps to recover proceeds of crime, with a total of 11,312,517,649 Ugandan shillings and USD 16,000 recovered between 2020 and 2023. Furthermore, the ODPP has convicted 148 individuals on corruption-related charges, with 69 of these convicts being government employees who were barred from holding public office for 10 years.
The recovery of stolen funds is also vulnerable to corruption, allowing individuals like Alex Mukomazi Lutaaya to potentially evade justice. Lutaaya, along with Richard Ssenkungu, is facing charges of conspiracy to defraud under Section 390 of the Penal Code Act. Additionally, Gilbert Kibuuka and John Mbidde are charged with causing financial loss under Section 20(1).
Given the severity of these charges, it is likely that the accused individuals will attempt to avoid prosecution and defeat justice. This may involve exploiting weaknesses in the judicial system, including seeking repeated adjournments, to delay the hearing and potentially have the case dismissed.
The case against Alex Mukomazi Lutaaya has taken a dramatic turn with the theft of crucial documentation containing substantial findings from a key witness. This brazen attempt to distort the case highlights the depth of corruption and the desperation of those involved.
Mukomazi’s schemes have reportedly infiltrated various government organizations, including the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), the Ministry of Works and Transport, and the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA). Despite being caught red-handed, Mukomazi continues to operate under different company names, showcasing his cunning and adaptability.
The theft of the documentation is a clear indication that Mukomazi will stop at nothing to evade justice. This case has far-reaching implications for Uganda’s fight against corruption, and it’s essential that the authorities remain vigilant and committed to bringing those responsible to account.
It appears that Alex Mukomazi Lutaaya has established a network of collaborators within various institutions, including the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), to facilitate corrupt activities. He allegedly utilizes personal relationships, including extramarital affairs, to manipulate procedures and avoid scrutiny.
In the URA, Lutaaya reportedly exploits his connections in the IT department to alter tax codes, making his companies tax-exempt. Furthermore, he allegedly attaches forged documents to the system, falsely claiming that his companies have World Bank projects. This raises serious concerns about his work experience and ability to secure such projects.
Lutaaya's actions demonstrate a clear abuse of power and corruption, highlighting the need for increased transparency and accountability within these institutions.
To verify Alex Mukomazi’s dealings with all the companies he uses, an independent audit is necessary, going beyond his submitted audits and ensuring compliance with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA). This audit should scrutinize his connections with ex-URA employees who still have ties with current URA staff in legal and other departments.
Moreover, the audit should investigate his dealings with other organizations, such as the Ministry of Works and Transport, and the Uganda National Road Authority (UNRA).
Specifically, it should examine his relationships with head departments like Procurement, Finance, and others, including the Director of Road Maintenance, Director procurement and Director of Finance at UNRA.
============= To be Continued ==========
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