The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Lady Justice Naluzze Aisha Batala, has directed the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Nobert Mao, to immediately interdict the Registrar General of the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), Ms. Mercy Kainobwisho, as investigations into allegations of corruption at the Bureau get underway.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Inspectorate of Government (IG) noted that it had commenced investigations against Ms. Kainobwisho over allegations of embezzlement of government funds, abuse of office, institutional mismanagement, money laundering and maladministration at URSB.
The interdiction is intended to ensure that the ongoing investigations are conducted without interference and in the public interest.
Hon. Mao has also been directed, in consultation with the URSB Board, to put in place interim arrangements to ensure the uninterrupted discharge of the functions of the Registrar General throughout the period of interdiction.
The Minister has further been directed to halt URSB’s scheduled residential Executive Training at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi, which was scheduled to run from Sunday, August 16 to Friday, August 21, 2026.
The training is to remain suspended until the IG’s investigations are concluded or further guidance is issued.
Three more officials affected
In a separate directive, the IGG has directed the Chairperson of the URSB Board of Directors, Rt. Hon. Butagira Francis, to interdict three senior officials of the Bureau pending completion of investigations into allegations of corruption against them.
The affected officials include Mr. Aganya Alex, Deputy Registrar General; Mr. Kwesiga Arthur, Commissioner, ICT and Innovations; and Mr. Kule Walid, Assistant Commissioner, Business Registration Services.
Rt. Hon. Butagira has been directed to promptly make appropriate interim arrangements for the discharge of the functions of the interdicted officials in accordance with the applicable laws, thereby ensuring continuity of URSB services and preventing any operational lacuna.
The Board Chairperson has also been directed to ensure that the URSB Board, management and staff fully cooperate with the ongoing investigations and provide the necessary support to facilitate their completion.
The IG reiterates its call to all public officials to uphold the principles of transparency, accountability and integrity in the execution of their duties.
