Shs60b Ministry of Finance Heist: Court Warns DPP Over Delayed Evidence

The prosecution team handling the high-profile Shs60 billion Ministry of Finance fraud case has come under fire from the judiciary. Anti-Corruption Court Judge David Makumbi issued a strict warning regarding the continuous delay in presenting evidence, cautioning that the court will begin excluding late disclosures if investigators fail to provide reasonable explanations.

Justice Makumbi expressed deep frustration during court proceedings over what he termed endless disclosures by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). The judge specifically questioned why state attorneys and investigators are still introducing fresh evidence even after the accused individuals have already been formally committed to the High Court to stand trial.

The massive financial scandal involves several officials who were previously charged in connection with the multi-billion shilling heist executed through the Bank of Uganda. Delays in streamlining the evidence have continued to stall the path toward a conclusive trial, drawing judicial scrutiny over the preparedness of the state.

Legal experts note that late disclosures undermine the right of the accused to a fair and speedy trial, forcing defense teams to continually review new material on the eve of hearings. Judge Makumbi emphasized that the prosecution must put its house in order to avoid further disruptions in the administration of justice.

For more details on this developing story, read the original report on Daily Monitor.