Today, on May 3, 2024, Sarah Babirye Kityo, the former president of the Uganda Netball Federation (UNF), is expected to appear in court regarding charges related to fraudulent accounting involving sh186m.
This legal proceeding will take place at the Anti-Corruption Court in Nakasero, Kampala, where Principal Grade One Magistrate Christopher Opit will preside over the session. The purpose of today’s appearance is for the court to review the case and for the state to provide an update on the ongoing investigations and the anticipated trial commencement date.
The case against Kityo stems from charges filed against her last year. Allegations suggest that between December and November of 2021, during her tenure at UNF, Kityo, along with others who are currently at large, purportedly engaged in activities aimed at defrauding the federation. Specifically, they are accused of fabricating false accountability reports regarding sh186m that was allocated by the National Council of Sports for the Pent Series and the African National Championship held in Namibia. Kityo has pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The charge leveled against Kityo falls under Section 23 of the Anti-Corruption Act of 2009, as amended, specifically addressing fraudulent false accounting. Upon conviction, this offense carries a penalty of up to seven years of imprisonment, a fine amounting to sh3.7m, or both.
Furthermore, individuals found guilty under the Anti-Corruption Act face additional repercussions, including a ten-year prohibition from holding any public office. Currently, Kityo is out on bail while awaiting trial.
