The High Court of Kampala is set to begin hearings on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, in the highly publicized case involving Joel Besekezi, former chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities, and State Enterprises (COSASE). Besekezi faces allegations of accepting a staggering Shs1.7 billion bribe from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) during his tenure.
Allegations Against Besekezi
- Bribery: Accepting Shs1.7 billion from UCAA
- Financial Irregularities: Inconsistencies in travel expenses to Nairobi, Kenya
- Corruption and Influence Peddling: Alleged corruption within the COSASE committee
Concerns about corruption within the committee were first raised by Hon. Alex Ruhunda, a COSASE member, during a parliamentary debate on January 18, 2023. Ruhunda alleged that corrupt individuals, referred to as “mafias,” were exerting influence over committee leaders to further their interests.
Journalist Dean Lubowa Saava highlighted the issue, prompting Besekezi to attempt to silence him. However, Besekezi’s efforts were unsuccessful, leading him to sue Lubowa Saava and Geoffrey Lukwago for spreading the allegations.
Public Reaction
The controversy surrounding Besekezi has sparked a social media campaign, #SsenyonyiMustResign, with many calling for his resignation. This is not the first time Besekezi has faced criticism, having previously been accused of inconsistencies in his travel expenses.
The upcoming hearing is expected to shed more light on these allegations and determine Besekezi’s fate. The High Court of Uganda has unlimited original jurisdiction, which means it can try any case of any value or crime of any magnitude.
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