The Anti-Corruption Court has remanded Mr. Baker Mugaino, Commissioner for Land Registration in the Ministry of Lands, Housing, and Urban Development, to Luzira Prison following serious charges of corruption and abuse of office.
The charges were brought against him by the Inspectorate of Government (IG), with Mr. Mugaino appearing before Chief Magistrate Racheal Nakyaze. Although he pleaded not guilty to both charges, his request for bail was not granted due to the absence of prepared sureties. His bail application is now scheduled for hearing on 5th June 2025.
Charges Explained
Count I: Abuse of Office
According to the IG, between April 8th and 20th, 2025, Mr. Mugaino unlawfully used his authority to irregularly cancel land titles issued to Tropical Bank Ltd, Akugizibwe Gerald Magera, and Namayiba Park Hotel. The affected titles include land in Kisenyi, Namirembe, and Kisugu, covering plots under Kibuga Block 12 and Kyadondo Block 244.
Count II: Corruption
Mr. Mugaino is also accused of neglecting his statutory duties under Section 85 of the Land Act Cap 236, particularly in handling a complaint related to the same disputed land. This failure is said to have undermined both public trust and institutional integrity.
A Growing Crackdown on Corruption
This case underscores the Ugandan government’s ongoing commitment to fight corruption and ensure accountability within public service. If convicted, Mr. Mugaino could face serious penalties including imprisonment and disqualification from holding public office.
He remains in custody as investigations continue, with eyes now on Thursday’s bail hearing for further developments.
