Family Petitions President Museveni Over Estate Dispute Involving High Court Judge

A group of four family members has lodged a formal complaint with President Yoweri Museveni, seeking an investigation into the administration of significant family estates. The petition, dated July 16, 2026, names High Court Judge Deepa Verma and the office of the Administrator General, accusing them of presiding over irregular and potentially unlawful processes concerning the estates of the late Zura Mama Kasuku and the late Ahluwalia Gudo.

The complainants, Bunny Wallia, Jonny Wallia, Ronnie Wallia, and Jassie Ahluwalia, assert that as beneficiaries with legitimate interests, they were excluded from succession proceedings. They claim that these proceedings were initiated without any consultation or notification to them, learning about the matter only after it was advertised in the media.

According to the petition, Justice Verma and her brother, Jessa Wallia, allegedly facilitated the opening and processing of estate files at the Office of the Administrator General on June 12, 2026. The family members further allege that a family meeting was convened the same day with only four attendees, excluding other beneficiaries despite their direct interest and lineage.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the speed at which certificates of no objection were issued by the Administrator General’s office, just three days after the purported family meeting. The complainants highlight the unusual swiftness of this process and question the circumstances surrounding it.

When reached for comment, Justice Deepa Verma dismissed the petition as stemming from “pure jealousy” from her cousins, particularly now that she holds a position as a High Court judge. She stated she had not yet seen the petition but would respond if it officially came to her attention. Justice Verma noted that the matter is currently in court, scheduled for mediation before retired Deputy Chief Justice Richard Buteera, and suggested the complainants should pursue legal channels rather than lodging complaints.

Justice Verma also defended the efficiency of government institutions, questioning why prompt processing should be seen negatively. She elaborated that she had previously entrusted the complainants with managing the estate when she was a practicing lawyer, but they allegedly mismanaged it, leading to the expiration of their letters of administration in 2025 and necessitating intervention. She vowed not to back down from her reputation being tarnished by what she termed “jealous and vindictive” actions from her cousins.

Mr. Sandor Walusimbi, Senior Presidential Press Secretary, indicated that he had no information regarding the President’s response to the petition at the time of reporting.