IGG Orders Interdiction of URSB Boss Mercy Kainobwisho Amid Graft Probe

Lady Justice Aisha Batala, the Inspector General of Government (IGG), has instructed the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, to immediately suspend Mercy Kainobwisho, the Registrar General of the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB). This directive follows allegations of significant corruption, including embezzlement, abuse of office, money laundering, and maladministration within the agency.

The Inspectorate of Government (IG) confirmed the launch of formal investigations into Ms. Kainobwisho on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The IGG emphasized that the interdiction is crucial to ensure the integrity of the ongoing investigation and to prevent any potential interference by those implicated.

Article 230 of the Constitution and Section 13(6) of the Inspectorate of Government Act empower the Ombudsman to issue necessary directives during investigations. The IG’s statement highlighted that public interest necessitates Ms. Kainobwisho’s suspension from her official duties while the probe continues.

Minister Mao is further tasked with consulting the URSB Board to establish interim leadership to ensure the bureau’s operations continue smoothly. Additionally, the IGG has ordered a halt to an executive residential training for URSB staff at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi until the investigations are concluded.

In related actions, the IGG has also directed the URSB Board Chairperson, Francis Butagira, to interdict three other senior officials: Deputy Registrar General Alex Aganya, Commissioner for ICT and Innovations Arthur Kwesiga, and Assistant Commissioner for Business Registration Services Walid Kule. The Board is required to implement interim measures and ensure full cooperation from all URSB staff with the investigators.

The IG reiterated its commitment to good governance and urged all public servants to maintain transparency, integrity, and accountability in their professional conduct. This action underscores the Inspectorate’s resolve to tackle corruption within public institutions.