The Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court has resumed hearing the corruption case against former Ministry of Trade Permanent Secretary Geraldine Ssali and five co-accused over the alleged fraudulent payment of Shs3.4 billion meant for the compensation of Buyaka Growers Cooperative Society Limited.
The proceedings before Justice Jane Kajuga resumed after a lengthy suspension occasioned by a constitutional petition filed by former Busiki County MP Paul Akamba, which temporarily halted the trial process.
During the resumed session, Chief State Attorney Edward Muhumuza informed court that all accused persons were present, except Principal Cooperative Officer Leonard Kavundira, who was not in attendance as he had reportedly not been served with summons and was unaware of the hearing date.
Justice Kajuga noted that a recent ruling by the Constitutional Court had effectively cleared the way for the criminal proceedings to continue despite earlier legal challenges that had stalled the matter.
However, the judge confirmed that a separate application filed by Akamba alleging violations of his human rights following his re-arrest after being granted bail will still be heard independently. The court set July 1, 2026, for the hearing of that application.
Akamba informed court that he intends to pursue the matter, maintaining that provisions of the Human Rights Enforcement Act remain applicable in his case.
The defence team also raised concerns over what they described as incomplete disclosure of prosecution evidence, arguing that it had affected their ability to fully prepare for trial.
In response, the prosecution requested additional time to complete the disclosure process.
Justice Kajuga directed the prosecution to finalize all disclosures by June 26, 2026, in preparation for trial proceedings.
She further set the substantive hearing of the main corruption case for September 9, 10, 15, 17 and 24, 2026, outlining a structured timetable for the full trial.
Meanwhile, bail for all accused persons was extended pending the commencement and conclusion of the trial process.
The case stems from allegations that Shs3.4 billion was fraudulently processed as compensation funds for Buyaka Growers Cooperative Society Limited, prompting charges of corruption and abuse of office against the former senior government official and her co-accused.
Court proceedings are expected to continue as the prosecution and defence prepare for the full trial later in the year.
By Our Reporter
17th June 2026
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