By KT Reporter
Mukono Chief Magistrates Court has denied bail to Mubaraka Ssekikuubo Mubiru, the LCIII Chairperson for Nakisunga and Mukono South Parliamentary contestant, following his arrest alongside Dr. Saadi Watabi, a health officer, and Ronald Mugerwa Ssaku, a probation officer in Lugazi Municipality.
The trio was arrested by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit on allegations of obtaining UGX 38 million from Dr. George William Mukisa, promising him government employment through the Mukono District Service Commission. When Ssekikuubo appeared before Mukono Chief Magistrates Court, the presiding magistrate remanded him to Kauga Prison, following a request from the State Attorney.
The prosecution argued that although Ssekikuubo had presented sureties, he failed to provide substantial proof of a permanent residence that could guarantee his court attendance. Through his lawyer Phiona Asaba of Larry Advocates, Ssekikuubo presented three sureties: his wife Rose Babirye Dickson Bwete Muganda, Christine Nalubega, and Richard Katanga, the LC1 Chairperson of Kiyoola Village.
Prosecutor Ayebare objected, noting that Ssekikuubo had not provided documents such as a land title, tenancy agreement, or utility bill to confirm a fixed residence, making it difficult to trace him if he absconds. The magistrate, Emwongu, concurred with the prosecution, ruling that Ssekikuubo had not met the court’s requirements for bail and ordered that he remain in custody until November 18.
His co-accused, Dr. Saadi Wataba and Ronald Mugerwa Ssaku, were each granted bail of UGX 4 million (cash), while their sureties were bonded at UGX 10 million (non-cash). All the accused are expected to return to court on November 18. A heated exchange erupted in court between the defense and prosecution over the bail terms.
Asaba argued that Dr. Wataba, being a civil servant, should not be detained over “minor allegations.” However, Ayebare countered that the accused could interfere with investigations or continue defrauding others. Supporters of Ssekikuubo, who had gathered in large numbers at the court, protested the ruling, claiming that his arrest and continued detention were politically motivated. They alleged that NRM District Chairperson for Mukono, Hajji Harunah Ssemakula, was behind the case.
When contacted, Hajji Ssemakula dismissed the allegations, describing them as false and intended to tarnish his reputation. Court heard that between January and June 2025, the accused and others still at large allegedly met in Mukono Municipality and attempted to defraud Dr. George William Mukisa of UGX 38 million by falsely promising him a government job in the health sector through the district service commission. Ssekikuubo was arrested by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit shortly after his nomination for Parliament.
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