Fr. Deus Ssekabira, a Catholic priest accused of money laundering involving Shs 500 million, was granted bail by the Masaka High Court on February 10, 2026. The ruling followed a tense court hearing in which the prosecution argued that the High Court lacked jurisdiction, but the defense countered that money laundering is a matter solely triable by the High Court. The priest was granted bail under stringent conditions, and the case has garnered public attention, especially due to his alleged ties to political activities during Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
Court Ruling and Bail Conditions
The High Court, under Judge Justice Victoria Nakintu, ruled in favor of Fr. Ssekabira’s bail application after he presented substantial sureties. Despite the opposition from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who argued the High Court lacked jurisdiction at this stage, the defense team successfully argued that the case fell under the High Court’s purview. Fr. Ssekabira is required to pay a cash bail of Shs 15 million, surrender his passport, and comply with additional conditions as set by the court.
The Legal Debate
During the hearing, the prosecution, represented by State Prosecutor Brian Kalinaki, challenged the jurisdiction of the High Court to hear the bail application, claiming that the proper procedure involved commitment from a lower court. However, the defense team, led by Sam Ssekyewa, maintained that money laundering charges are only triable by the High Court, making their bail application appropriate. Justice Nakintu sided with the defense, acknowledging the importance of ensuring the proper legal process for such serious charges.
Public Reaction and Political Implications
Fr. Ssekabira’s arrest, which occurred amidst the 2026 general elections, has raised suspicions due to his alleged involvement with the National Unity Platform (NUP) and its presidential candidate, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, commonly known as Bobi Wine. While the official charges relate to money laundering, the political undertones of the case have not gone unnoticed. Supporters of Fr. Ssekabira celebrated his release outside the court, marking a moment of relief and jubilation.
Ongoing Investigations
Despite his release on bail, investigations into the money laundering case are ongoing. Authorities have yet to comment further on the nature of the priest’s alleged financial activities. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case is expected to attract further public and media scrutiny, with questions continuing to swirl regarding the broader political context.