The recent High Court order, issued by Justice Tadeo Asiimwe on October 24, 2023, mandates Dfcu Bank to vacate 48 leasehold properties associated with the defunct Crane Bank. This directive requires the Commissioner Land Registration to cancel the transfer of these properties to Dfcu Bank and grant Meera Investment vacant possession within three months from the judgment date.
This legal tussle stems from Meera Investment’s lawsuit against Dfcu Bank and the Commissioner Land Registration, disputing the transfer of these 48 leases by the Bank of Uganda to Dfcu Bank. Meera Investment, a sister company of the defunct Crane Bank, alleges that the transfer was unauthorized and challenges the Bank of Uganda’s authority in facilitating this transfer during the Purchase of Assets and Assumption Agreement (P&A) in 2017.
The bank, however, defends the legality of the transfer, maintaining its valid ownership of the properties. Dfcu Bank also asserts full indemnity by the Bank of Uganda under the P&A agreement.
While Dfcu Bank has already vacated the branches located in the disputed properties back in 2020, the legal battle continues. The court ruling may have considerable implications, not only affecting Dfcu Bank’s operations but potentially influencing Uganda’s investment climate, with foreign investors scrutinizing property rights and government actions.
Depositors’ confidence in Dfcu Bank might be impacted, considering the potential need for compensation to Meera Investment and uncertainties over the bank’s obligations.
The court’s decision is subject to potential appeal, and regardless of the ruling’s outcome, a potential settlement between Dfcu Bank and Meera Investment might be on the horizon. Such a settlement could involve compensation payment or a property sale agreement.
The situation raises vital questions about the government’s role in the banking sector and the initial property transfer’s legality, considering Meera Investment’s claims.
Overall, the legal battle over these properties underscores the vulnerability of even established banks to legal challenges and highlights the need for fair, inclusive solutions involving all concerned parties.
The ripple effect of this ruling on the Ugandan economy emphasizes the significance of carefully considering the implications and fostering collaborative efforts toward a resolution that upholds fairness for all stakeholders involved.