Calls for Constitutional Reform After Presidential Pardon of Convicted Official
Legal experts and anti-corruption advocates are pushing for a review of Uganda's constitution, particularly Article 121, which grants the president the power to pardon convicted criminals before they serve their full sentences.
This movement gained momentum following President Museveni's recent decision to pardon John Kashaka Muhanguzi, a former permanent secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, who had been convicted in the notorious LC bicycle procurement scam.
The Uganda Prisons Service confirmed that Kashaka, who had served more than five years, was released early, cutting his sentence by over 18 months.
His pardon has triggered outrage from anti-corruption activists, who argue that such clemency undermines the country's fight against corruption.
Marlon Agaba, Executive Director of the Anti-Corruption Coalition Uganda (ACCU), expressed concern that the presidential prerogative of mercy was increasingly benefiting high-profile convicts, particularly those involved in corruption.
Agaba and other activists believe this practice weakens the judiciary and investigative agencies, as it suggests that their efforts can be negated by a single presidential decision.
Commercial lawyer Steven Kalali shared similar concerns, warning that repeated pardons for corrupt individuals could weaken efforts to deter future corruption. He argued that the selective use of this power often benefits influential figures, which could erode public trust in the legal system.
Constitutional lawyer George Musisi called for more transparency in the pardon process, noting that the public lacks insight into how or why certain individuals are selected for clemency.
He questioned the fairness and accountability of the process, adding to calls for reform.
The pardon of Kashaka follows a pattern of similar cases, including the pardoning of high-profile figures like Jimmy Rwamafa and Chandi Jamwa, both convicted of corruption.
These instances have intensified demands for a constitutional review to prevent potential misuse of the president’s prerogative of mercy.