Scenes of unbridled celebration erupted outside Masaka High Court on Tuesday as embattled Catholic priest Fr Deusdedit Ssekabira walked to freedom after Justice Victoria Nakintu granted him bail in a Sh 500 Million money laundering case that has gripped the nation.
The courtroom, packed to capacity with faithful parishioners, family members, and curious onlookers, burst into applause and ululation as Ugandan High Court Justice Nakintu delivered her ruling, bringing temporary relief to the cleric who has been behind bars since his arrest.
“The accused has presented substantial sureties who have demonstrated both the means and willingness to ensure his appearance in court,” Justice Nakintu declared from the bench, her voice cutting through the tense atmosphere.
“This court is satisfied that the sureties are reliable and of sufficient standing in the community.”
The judge, however, was quick to temper the celebration with stern warnings about the conditions attached to the priest’s release.
“Let it be clear that bail is not an acquittal,” Justice Nakintu emphasized, peering over her reading glasses at the accused.
“Fr Ssekabira must surrender his passport to this court immediately and is strictly prohibited from leaving the jurisdiction of Masaka without prior permission from this court.”
The prosecution, led by State Attorney James Olega, had vigorously opposed the bail application, arguing that the priest posed a flight risk given the gravity of the charges.
“Your Lordship, the accused faces serious charges of money laundering involving substantial sums,” Olega had argued earlier in the proceedings.
“There is a real and present danger that he may abscond and interfere with witnesses if released.”
Further, State Prosecutor Brian Kalinaki had asked Masaka High Court to return Fr Deusdedit Ssekabira’s case to the Chief Magistrate’s Court for plea in a Sh500 million money laundering case.
But defense lawyer Martin Musiime countered with equal vigor, painting his client as a pillar of the community with deep roots in Masaka Diocese.
“My Lord, Fr Ssekabira is not just any citizen—he is a man of God who has served this community faithfully for over two decades,” Musiime told the court. “He has a fixed place of abode, he has no criminal record, and he is willing to comply with any conditions this honorable court deems fit to impose.”
The bail conditions set by Justice Nakintu include a cash bond of 20 million shillings for Fr Ssekabira and 10 million shillings each for his two sureties, both prominent businessmen from Masaka town.
“The accused shall report to the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Masaka every fortnight until the conclusion of this case,” the judge ordered.
“Any breach of these conditions will result in immediate revocation of bail and re-arrest.”
As Fr Ssekabira emerged from the courtroom, still clad in his black clerical shirt and white collar, supporters surged forward, some attempting to kneel and kiss his hand in the traditional Catholic gesture of respect.
“God has answered our prayers!” exclaimed Rose Namubiru, a parishioner who had traveled from Bukakata to attend the hearing.
“We knew Father was innocent. This is just persecution of a man who has done so much for the poor.”
The priest himself appeared visibly moved but maintained composure, raising his hand in blessing toward the crowd.
“I thank the Almighty God and this honorable court for granting me this opportunity,” Fr Ssekabira said, his voice hoarse with emotion.
“I have faith in our justice system, and I am confident that when all the facts are presented, my innocence will be established beyond any doubt.”
The charges against Fr Ssekabira stem from allegations that he laundered over Sh 500 million through various parish accounts between 2020 and 2024.
Investigators from the Financial Intelligence Authority claim to have traced suspicious transactions involving large cash deposits that did not correspond with normal parish collections.
The case has divided opinion within Masaka Diocese, with some parishioners standing firmly behind their priest while others have expressed concern about the allegations.
Bishop John Baptist Kaggwa of Masaka Diocese has maintained cautious neutrality, stating in an earlier press release: “The Church respects the judicial process and will await the court’s determination while continuing to pray for all parties involved.”
Legal experts have described the case as one of the most significant financial crimes prosecutions involving a member of the clergy in recent years.
“This case will set important precedents regarding how religious institutions handle finances and their accountability to financial regulations,” noted Dr Christine Nakato, a law lecturer at Makerere University who specializes in financial crimes.
As Fr Ssekabira was driven away from the court premises in a white pickup truck, supporters lined the road, waving and chanting hymns.
Some held placards reading “Free Father Ssekabira” and “God’s servant, not a criminal.”
The case is scheduled for mention on March 15, when the prosecution is expected to present its witness list and the defense will have an opportunity to file preliminary objections.
For now, though, the jubilant faithful are savoring what they see as a victory, even as the wheels of justice continue to turn in what promises to be a long and closely watched legal battle.
Justice Nakintu’s parting words echoed in the courtroom long after it had emptied: “Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. This court will ensure a fair trial for all parties.”
