IGG interdicts lands commissioner over fraud
Interdicted Commissioner for Land Registration, Mr Baker Mugaino. Photo | Courtesy
What you need to know:
- The interdiction is over allegations of fraudulent cancellation and transfer of land titles, which has been a longstanding issue plaguing the country's land management system
The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Ms Beti Kamya, has taken decisive action against corruption in the Ministry of Lands by issuing a directive ordering the Permanent Secretary, Ms Dorcas Okalany, to interdict the Commissioner for Land Registration, Mr Baker Mugaino.
The interdiction is over allegations of fraudulent cancellation and transfer of land titles, which has been a longstanding issue plaguing the country's land management system.
According to the IGG, Mr Mugaino is accused of engaging in corrupt practices, including cancelling genuine Certificates of Titles, arbitrarily lifting caveats, and facilitating multiple titling of land.
These actions have caused immense suffering to innocent landowners and have undermined the integrity of the land registration process.
"The interdiction will pave the way for investigations into allegations of fraud, cancellation and transfer of land titles," Ms. Kamya said in a letter dated April 25.
The directive follows a series of complaints from the public, which prompted the IGG to conduct a search at Mr Mugaino's office on April 24.
During the search, evidence of alleged malpractices was uncovered, including issuing Freehold Titles to foreigners, changing Mailo Land to Freehold Titles without following procedures, and disregarding court decisions.
The IGG's letter also highlights the importance of accountability in public service, emphasising that the interdiction is pursuant to Article 225 (1) (e) of the Constitution and Section 7(1) (e) of the Inspectorate of Government Act, CAP 32. Ms Kamya has asked the Permanent Secretary to inform her of the action taken within seven days, underscoring the need for swift and decisive action.
As a result, the Monitor has learnt that the Ministry of Lands' top management has convened a meeting to discuss the directive and determine the next steps.
The Ministry's Spokesperson, Mr Dennis Obbo confirmed that the office of the Permanent Secretary is aware of the development and is holding a meeting to provide guidance.
"The meeting aims to ensure a smooth transition and to pave the way for a thorough investigation into the allegations."
