MPs Raise Alarm Over Judiciary’s Soaring Shs13.3 Billion Debt and Financial Mismanagement

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) revealed that the Judiciary’s debts have soared to Shs13.371 billion in five years, raising concerns over the institution’s financial discipline.

Legislators have expressed alarm over the rising debt burden at the Judiciary, accusing officials of financial mismanagement and failing to provide accountability for allocated funds.

The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) revealed that the Judiciary’s debts have soared to Shs13.371 billion in five years, raising concerns over the institution’s financial discipline.

Among the outstanding obligations, rent arrears account for Shs8.575 billion, while motor vehicle repair costs have accumulated to Shs3.722 billion.

Additionally, Shs3 million remains unpaid for cleaning services, and Shs790 million is owed for judicial attire.

MPs were also irked by the Judiciary’s failure to fully account for Shs5 billion allocated for case disposal, which they say was only partially implemented.

PAC has given Judiciary officials two weeks to justify how the funds were spent.

The committee further raised concerns over delays in bail refunds, with Shs24 billion sitting in trust accounts.

In the 2023/24 financial year alone, the Judiciary collected Shs8 billion in bail fees but refunded only 30% to beneficiaries.

Appearing before PAC, Judiciary Permanent Secretary Pius Bigirimana defended the rent arrears, arguing that shutting down courts in rented premises was not an option.

Acting Chief Registrar Pamela Lamunu acknowledged challenges in bail refunds but assured MPs that efforts were underway to streamline the process.

The lawmakers, however, remain firm in demanding greater transparency and financial accountability from the Judiciary.