Ex-Minister Musumba Settles UGX 160M Debt

(Kamuli) – Isaac Musumba, former state Lands Minister of Uganda, spent a night in Luzira prison following a court ruling over his unpaid debt.

This debt of 160 million shillings had been due since Musumba borrowed the sum from businessman Charles Wakwale in August 2023, with an agreement to repay within four days.

However, the debt remained unpaid for over a year, and repeated settlement attempts by Wakwale ultimately led to legal action.

In the village of Matuumu, Kamuli district, family, friends, and supporters gathered to welcome Musumba back after his release from Luzira prison, where he spent a night following a court-ordered sentence over an unsettled debt.

Emotions ran high as the homecoming was marked with cheers, music, and celebratory chants, highlighting the local community’s support for the former political leader.

Expressing his dedication, Musumba reassured supporters of his intentions to pursue a seat in Parliament for Buzaaya constituency in 2026, a role he once held.

The situation began in August 2023, when Musumba borrowed 160 million shillings from businessman Charles Wakwale, with an agreement to repay it by August 18. However, the debt went unpaid, leading to a protracted legal pursuit by Wakwale. Court documents show that Wakwale made several unsuccessful attempts to recover the money, ultimately resulting in a court summons for Musumba.

On October 23, 2024, the case was brought before the Commercial Court, where Justice Patience Tukusiime presided over the proceedings. Musumba offered a partial payment of 10 million shillings, promising to pay the remaining amount later, but Wakwale refused the proposal. Justice Tukusiime then ordered Musumba’s detention for six months, or until the full debt was repaid.

Musumba’s imprisonment surprised many of his supporters in Kamuli, where he maintains a strong political following. However, within a day of his sentencing, Musumba managed to raise the necessary funds, securing his release.

Back in Matuumu, Musumba’s family and supporters organized a spirited celebration. As he addressed the crowd, he acknowledged the debt but suggested that the legal action might have been politically motivated, aimed at undermining his career in the run-up to the 2026 general elections. “I had no problem with Mr. Wakwale,” Musumba said. “But this being a political season, I feel the sentence was enforced to pressure me, even though I was prepared to pay.”

The gathering was more than just a celebration; it became a demonstration of loyalty and solidarity with Musumba. Supporters expressed gratitude through prayers and symbolic gifts, celebrating his release and affirming their commitment to his leadership.

Musumba used the occasion to reassure his supporters of his dedication to their interests, pledging continued service to the people of Buzaaya constituency, where he plans to run in the 2026 parliamentary elections.