Agency
The police have formally preferred charges of money laundering against the Masaka-based Catholic priest, shifting focus from earlier military allegations of subversive activities.
Documents obtained from the Masaka East Regional Police Headquarters indicate charges of money-launduering with sanctions approved today, on December 23rd.
The charge sheet says Fr. Ssekabira and others still at large are accused of committing the offense between 2023 and 2025 at the Centenary Bank branch in Masaka.
The particulars of the offense state: “Ssekabira Deusdedit and others still at large… intentionally concealed or disguised the true ownership of UGX 500,000, 000, knowing or suspecting such property to be the proceeds of crime.”
Under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, if the priest is convicted, he faces imprisonment for up to fifteen years, a fine of up to 100,000 currency points (equivalent to 2 billion shillings), or both.
This financial charge appears linked to longstanding family disputes over the management of donor funds for the Uplift Vulnerable Children and Orphans Foundation and its associated primary school, which Fr. Ssekabira directs. However, more information on the matter is yet to be available.
Reports suggest internal conflicts involving charity governance and debts may have escalated, potentially prompting the investigation.
Earlier this morning, authorities in the Masaka Diocese informed URN that the priest was scheduled to appear in court today. However, as of the latest communication, Fr. Ssekabira had not yet been produced before the magistrate.
The case continues to draw attention amid concerns over the initial abduction-style arrest on December 3, prolonged detention, and the transition from military to police custody. Church leaders and supporters await the court proceedings for further clarity on the allegations and due process.
