NEWS- The Rukungiri High Court Resident Judge, Justice Tom Chemutai, has initiated investigations into bribery allegations against his clerk, Phednand Kyarisiima Nuwabiine.
The prosecution claims that in May 2024, during a visit to Kanungu Court by the Resident Judge and his clerk, the complainant, Stephen Nuwagaba, secretly negotiated with Phednand to expedite his murder trial and reduce his potential sentence.
Stephen Nuwagaba, a 39-year-old resident of Buhanja Cell, Northern Ward, Kanungu Town Council in Kanungu District, is currently on remand for the alleged murder of his elder brother in July 2022.
Nuwagaba testified that Phednand Kyarisiima Nuwabiine demanded 4 million Ugandan Shillings for the favor, of which Nuwagaba’s wife, Sylvia Kyarisiima, managed to pay 3 million. However, Phednand failed to deliver on the agreement, leading to a dispute where he refunded 1 million but withheld the remaining balance.
Justice Tom Chemutai was informed of the situation by the State Attorney of Kanungu District and subsequently summoned the complainants for a public hearing on Thursday, July 11, 2024. During the session, Justice Chemutai highlighted a recent regional coordination meeting where it was revealed that bribery, facilitated by lawyers, clerks, bailiffs, and intermediaries, is a significant issue affecting court performance.
He urged the public to refrain from paying bribes for court favors, emphasizing that court services are free, and encouraged court users to consult his office for assistance.
Justice Chemutai has ordered the police to compile a report for further court proceedings, aiming to combat corruption within the judicial system, with a stern warning that anyone found guilty will face legal consequences.
