The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala, has directed the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, to immediately interdict Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) Registrar General Mercy Kainobwisho as investigations into alleged corruption at the institution get underway.

The Inspectorate of Government (IG) said it has commenced investigations into allegations against Kainobwisho, including alleged embezzlement of government funds, abuse of office, institutional mismanagement, money laundering and maladministration.

According to the directive, the interdiction is intended to ensure that the investigations are conducted without interference and in the public interest.

The IGG said its directive is based on Article 230 of the Constitution of Uganda and Section 13(6) of the Inspectorate of Government Act, which empower the Inspector General of Government to make orders and issue directions considered necessary and appropriate in the circumstances.

The Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs has also been directed, in consultation with the URSB Board, to put in place interim arrangements to ensure the uninterrupted performance of the Registrar General’s functions during the period of interdiction.

URSB Training Suspended
Mao has further been directed to halt URSB’s scheduled residential executive training at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi.

The training, which was scheduled to run from Sunday, August 16 to Friday, August 21, 2026, will remain suspended until the IG’s investigations are concluded or further guidance is issued.

Three Senior Officials Also Interdicted
In a separate directive, the IGG has ordered the Chairperson of the URSB Board of Directors, Rt. Hon. Francis Butagira, to interdict three senior officials pending the completion of investigations into allegations of corruption against them.

The officials are Alex Aganya, Deputy Registrar General; Arthur Kwesiga, Commissioner for ICT and Innovations; and Walid Kule, Assistant Commissioner for Business Registration Services.

Butagira has been directed to make appropriate interim arrangements for the affected offices in accordance with the law to ensure continuity of URSB services and prevent any operational gaps.

The URSB Board, management and staff have also been directed to fully cooperate with the ongoing investigations and provide the necessary support required to facilitate their completion.

The Inspectorate of Government reiterated its call to public officials to uphold transparency, accountability and integrity in the execution of their duties.