Inspectorate Renew Calls to Interdict URSB Boss and Top Officials Over Corruption

The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has renewed its call for the immediate interdiction of Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) Registrar General Mercy Kainobwisho and three other senior officials. The anti-graft body accused Justice Minister Norbert Mao of failing to properly enforce an earlier directive issued in August regarding the high-ranking bureau officials.

In an official statement, the IG directed Minister Mao to enforce the interdiction order against Kainobwisho. Furthermore, the Inspectorate instructed URSB board chairperson Francis Butagira to interdict Deputy Registrar General Alex Anganya, Commissioner for ICT and Innovations Arthur Kwesiga, and Assistant Commissioner for Business Registration Services Walid Kule without delay.

The investigation stems from serious allegations including the embezzlement of government funds, abuse of office, institutional mismanagement, money laundering, and maladministration. According to the IG, placing these officials on mandatory leave—as Minister Mao opted to do instead of formal interdiction—undermines the integrity of the ongoing probes and exceeds statutory leave entitlements.

The Inspectorate also took issue with the treatment of Gilbert Agaba, the Commissioner for Business Registration Services. The IG stated that Agaba was irregularly forced onto mandatory leave despite not being a subject of any active investigations, violating provisions of the Whistleblowers Protection Act. The board was ordered to reinstate Agaba immediately so he can resume his full duties.

The IG maintains that its orders are fully backed by Article 230(2) of the Constitution and Section 13(6) of the Inspectorate of Government Act, which empower the office to issue necessary directions during investigations. The allegations against the URSB executives remain under review, and no final determinations of culpability have been established yet.

Read more details on the Nile Post.