In a dramatic twist in the multibillion Bank of Uganda scandal, Assistant Commissioner of Accounts Pedson Twesigomwe has been granted bail by the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court.
Twesigomwe, a senior official in the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, is accused of playing a key role in the alleged theft of Shs53 billion from the central bank.
The decision, delivered by High Court Judge Lawrence Gidudu, has sparked debate as Twesigomwe walks free on a Shs25 million cash bail.
Two Members of Parliament—Hon. Roland Ndyomugrenyi and Hon. Moses Kamuntu—stepped forward as sureties, signing a non-cash bond of Shs300 million.
The Bail Ruling
Judge Gidudu justified the bail decision, stating that Twesigomwe met the necessary conditions, including providing substantial sureties.
He described MPs as “politically exposed persons” capable of meeting financial obligations, even if it means finding creditors to cover their commitments.
The judge acknowledged the gravity of the charges but ruled that they are bailable as long as sufficient safeguards are in place.
Twesigomwe was ordered to surrender his passport, avoid his office without permission, and report to the court registrar monthly.
Prosecution’s Objections Overruled
The prosecution had vehemently opposed Twesigomwe’s bail application, accusing him of previously jumping police bond.
However, Judge Gidudu dismissed this argument, stating it was not sufficient grounds to deny bail.
This ruling has raised eyebrows, especially given the scale of the alleged fraud. Twesigomwe is among several high-ranking officials implicated in the scandal, including Accountant General Lawrence Ssemakula, who was also granted bail earlier.
A Scandal That Shook the Nation
The Shs53 billion scandal has sent shockwaves through the country, exposing deep-rooted corruption within the financial sector.
The funds, allegedly siphoned from the Bank of Uganda, were meant for critical government programs, raising questions about accountability and oversight.
Twesigomwe’s release on bail adds another layer of complexity to the case. While some see it as a victory for due process, others fear it could undermine efforts to hold powerful individuals accountable.
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As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the Anti-Corruption Court. Will Twesigomwe and his co-accused face justice, or will the scandal fade into obscurity?
For now, the bail ruling has reignited debates about corruption, accountability, and the role of the judiciary in high-stakes cases.
