The former Vice President of Uganda Prof. Gilbert Bukenya has been relieved from prosecution before the anti- corruption court on charges of abuse of office till the constitutional court pronounces itself on the constitutionality of the said charges.
In his petition filed in the constitutional court, Prof Bukenya contends that the office of the VP has no independent mandate and derives all its powers from the office of the President.
He adds that whatever he did during CHOGM preparations was not personal but delivered orders from the President.
He now says that the said charges are unconstitutional since the constitution protects the President from prosecution for any actions done in an official capacity.
In their ruling areas by the constitutional court registrar Elias Kisawuzi, the 3 justices led by the deputy chief justice Mpagi Bahigeine said that the petition raises substantial constitutional issues that require resolution by the constitutional court.
They have subsequently stayed criminal proceedings against Bukenya in the Anti- corruption court till his petition is heard and determined.
The petition shall be heard on the 5th of next month.
Last month, the IGG instituted charges of abuse of office and fraudulent practice against Bukenya allegedly committed during the CHOGM preparations when he illegally issued a 9bn shs contract for motor care Uganda Ltd to buy 80 BMWs used in transporting heads of states during the event.
Ultimate Media