The High Court has granted bail to Catholic priest Fr. Deusdedit Ssekabira, who is facing charges related to the alleged laundering of Shs500 million.
In a ruling delivered by Lady Justice Victoria Nakintu, the court found that the accused had fulfilled all the legal requirements for bail, including presenting substantial and credible sureties.
Justice Nakintu noted that the priest demonstrated a willingness to comply with court directives and that there was no sufficient evidence to show he would interfere with ongoing investigations or abscond from trial.
The judge emphasised that bail is a constitutional right and that the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Fr. Ssekabira was subsequently released on bail under conditions expected to include regular court appearances and adherence to any restrictions set by the court as the trial proceeds. The priest has denied the allegations against him.
According to the prosecution, the charges stem from financial transactions amounting to Shs500 million that investigators suspect were part of a money laundering scheme.
The state maintains that inquiries are ongoing and that further evidence will be presented during the trial.
The case has drawn public attention due to the accused’s standing as a religious leader, with legal observers saying the proceedings will test both the strength of the prosecution’s evidence and the safeguards within Uganda’s financial crimes laws.
The matter returns to court on a date to be communicated as hearings continue.
