In a significant development in the high-profile Bank of Uganda scandal, the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court has granted bail to Pedson Twesigomwe, the Assistant Commissioner Accounts in the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
Twesigomwe is accused of being involved in the alleged theft of Shs53 billion from the Bank of Uganda.
High Court Judge Lawrence Gidudu granted Twesigomwe a cash bail of Shs25 million, pending the hearing of his case. The judge ruled that Twesigomwe qualifies for bail since he can provide substantial sureties. Two members of Parliament, Hon. Roland Ndyomugrenyi and Hon. Moses Kamuntu, stood as sureties for Twesigomwe.
Judge Gidudu noted that MPs are “politically exposed persons” who can find creditors to service their financial obligations. He also stated that the charges against Twesigomwe are serious, but bailable, provided sufficient safeguards are put in place.
As part of his bail conditions, Twesigomwe was ordered to deposit his passport in court, refrain from going to his office without permission, and report to the Registrar of the court once a month. His sureties were required to sign a non-cash bond of Shs300 million.
Twesigomwe’s co-accused, including the Accountant General in the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Lawrence Ssemakula, and others, were previously granted bail.
The prosecution had objected to Twesigomwe’s bail application, citing that he had jumped police bond. However, Judge Gidudu ruled that this was not a valid reason to deny him bail.
