MBARARA
The former Town Clerk of Mbarara City, Abirebe Assy Tumwesigire, has been charged with abuse of office and remanded to custody until September 16, 2026.
Tumwesigire was arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court on Friday afternoon by the Inspectorate of Government, in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
The prosecution alleges that in October 2022, Tumwesigire, who was employed by the Ministry of Local Government and posted to Mbarara City as Town Clerk, abused the authority of his office by entering into a licence agreement on behalf of Mbarara City with ATC Uganda Limited.
According to the charge, the agreement granted ATC Uganda Limited space on the rooftop and ground area of Mbarara Central Market for the installation of antennas, equipment, a generator, poles, cable trays and the distribution of In-Building Antenna Distribution System (IDAS) antennas.
The prosecution alleges that Tumwesigire entered into the agreement without following established procedures and applicable laws, thereby committing an arbitrary act prejudicial to the interests of his employer.
He is accused of committing the offence together with other individuals who are still at large.
After appearing before the Anti-Corruption Court, Tumwesigire was remanded until September 16, when he is expected to return to court.
The charges against Tumwesigire are allegations, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
