The High Court Civil Division is scheduled to start hearing a case today. It was brought forward by Richard Byarugaba, the former Managing Director of the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). He is challenging the decision of Betty Amongi, the Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, not to reappoint him.
The case will be presided over by Musa Ssekaana, the Head of the High Court Civil Division.
In his lawsuit, Byarugaba is asking the court to order the minister to approve his reappointment. He claims that the minister disregarded his concerns and appointed Patrick Ayota as his replacement with a five-year contract, effective from August 18, 2023.
Byarugaba has taken legal action against the Attorney General and Minister Amongi. He argues that the minister’s decision not to reappoint him was malicious, citing her known bias against him.
Part of the application reads, “The new developments were created to undermine the applicant’s claim. They occurred after the application for judicial review was filed and served and are now being raised as a defense against the applicant’s suit.”
Over the past few months, the Fund has been rocked by ongoing disputes between Byarugaba and the minister. These disagreements have included allegations of mismanagement against Byarugaba, which he has consistently denied.