Following the guilty verdict, Namono and Bichacha have been remanded to Maluku Government Prison.
MBALE, Uganda – In a landmark ruling that has sent shockwaves through local government circles, the Mbale Court has convicted two senior officials from Manafwa District for their roles in a sophisticated Shs1.6 billion fraud scheme.
The convicted individuals are Betty Namono, the Principal Human Resource Officer (PHRO), and Michael Bichacha, the Chief Finance Officer (CFO). They were found guilty of obtaining the colossal sum from Duckhill Microfinance Limited in Mbale through false pretences.
According to evidence presented in court, the duo orchestrated the fraud by presenting a portfolio of forged documents to secure the loans. These included fabricated contracts, other supporting documents, and fraudulent security instruments, such as land titles.
Prosecutors successfully argued that Namono and Bichacha exploited their influential positions within the district administration to gain credibility and access to credit facilities far exceeding their legitimate repayment capabilities. The case highlights deep-seated issues of graft and abuse of office within public institutions.
The conviction marks a significant point in a saga that had already seen both officials interdicted from their duties over allegations of collusion. However, in a controversial move, their interdiction was lifted before the legal proceedings reached their conclusion, allowing them to return to work temporarily.
Following the guilty verdict, Namono and Bichacha have been remanded to Maluku Government Prison. They are now awaiting their sentencing hearing, scheduled for next week, where they will learn their fate.
The case has been closely watched as a test of the judiciary's resolve in tackling high-level financial crime. The impending sentencing is expected to deliver a strong message about the consequences of corruption for public officials.
