Kampala's Anti-Corruption Court has charged former Bufumbira South County MP Sam Bitangaro with conspiring to defraud Kiboga Twegate Cooperatives Society Limited of over 1.3 billion shillings. Chief Magistrate Joan Aciro presided over the case.

Allegations Against Bitangaro

The prosecution alleges that on May 21, 2014, Bitangaro obtained 1.326 billion shillings from Kiboga Twegate Cooperatives Society Limited by falsely representing that he had a good marketable title to Singo Block 308 plot 122, measuring 492.03 hectares. However, he knew this was not the case and that his actions would cause financial loss to the cooperative.

Additionally, Bitangaro is accused of fraudulently procuring a title to property comprised in Singo Block 308 plot 146 on May 5th, 2014, at the Mityana District Land office. This was allegedly done by causing an irregular subdivision of plot 122, which he had already sold to Kiboga Twegate Cooperatives Society Limited.

Co-Accused and Bail

Bitangaro's co-accused include Lawyer John Francis Onyango Owor, Stella Kakuba, and William Tumwine. Despite denying charges, Bitangaro was granted a 12 million shillings bail, with his sureties bonding a non-cash bond of 500 million shillings.

Case Adjournment

The case has been adjourned to November 26, 2024. Previously issued warrants of arrest against Bitangaro were canceled due to reports of his illness.

This case highlights concerns about corruption and fraudulent activities involving cooperatives in Uganda. The Cooperative Societies Act aims to regulate and promote the development of cooperatives.