The executive director of the Uganda National Bureau of Standards asked the High Court to stop a corruption investigation he claims violates legal procedure and natural justice. James Nkamwesiga Kasigwa filed a petition after Trade Minister Francis Mwebesa ordered an inquiry into allegations of misconduct and directed him to take forced leave, effective October 15. The director argues that the minister lacks the authority to suspend him under bureau regulations and that the minister acts as accuser and judge in the same case.
Kasigwa said the National Standards Council cannot conduct an impartial probe because the minister who appointed its members also has the power to remove them. He wants investigators from independent agencies, such as the Inspectorate of Government, to handle criminal allegations rather than a council controlled by the minister. Justice Joyce Kavuma adjourned the hearing until November 4 after the Attorney General requested time to verify a letter suggesting the minister withdrew his orders. The appointment of Kasigwa sparked controversy when the deputy attorney general questioned why the third-ranked interviewee received the position.
Kasigwa said the National Standards Council cannot conduct an impartial probe because the minister who appointed its members also has the power to remove them. He wants investigators from independent agencies, such as the Inspectorate of Government, to handle criminal allegations rather than a council controlled by the minister. Justice Joyce Kavuma adjourned the hearing until November 4 after the Attorney General requested time to verify a letter suggesting the minister withdrew his orders. The appointment of Kasigwa sparked controversy when the deputy attorney general questioned why the third-ranked interviewee received the position.
