The High Court in Kampala has granted the Director of Public Prosecutions permission to file fresh charges against former Permanent Secretary for Trade, Mr. Moses Ssali, over a US$1 million (Shs 3.8 billion) procurement scandal that allegedly involved the illegal award of a customs‑automation contract. The original charges of abuse of office were dismissed on a technicality last year, but prosecutors argued that new evidence, including bank statements and email correspondence, demonstrated a clear pattern of bribery and money‑laundering. If convicted, Ssali could face up to ten years’ imprisonment and the forfeiture of all assets linked to the scheme. The ruling has been welcomed by anti‑corruption activists, who say it signals a tougher stance on graft, but opposition parties warn that the case may be used politically ahead of the upcoming general elections.
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