Allegations of Misconduct Rock Uganda’s Judiciary: Senior Citizen Files Petition Against Acting Judge
Kampala, Uganda – december 16, 2025 – Uganda’s judicial system is facing renewed scrutiny following a formal complaint filed today by a Kampala resident against Acting Judge Bonny isaac Teko. Teh petition, addressed to key figures including President Yoweri Museveni, Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, and the Chairperson of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), alleges a pattern of illegal rulings, political bias, corruption, and the use of fraudulent academic credentials.
Manisul Abdul Rahim, the complainant, asserts that Judge Teko’s alleged actions represent a significant threat to the integrity of Uganda’s legal framework. The detailed, two-page petition - copies of wich have been received by the Supreme Court and the JSC – outlines a series of serious accusations that, if substantiated, could have far-reaching consequences for the judiciary.
Claims of Political bias and Disregard for Due Process
The core of Rahim’s complaint centers on accusations of political bias, specifically alleging preferential treatment towards candidates from the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) at the expense of those affiliated with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Rahim claims Judge Teko prioritizes speed over thoroughness, issuing what he describes as “bogus rulings” to create an appearance of productivity.
The petition details specific instances of alleged misconduct, including the handling of NRM election disputes. Rahim contends that Judge Teko entertained these disputes without the prerequisite tribunal hearings, a direct violation of both the NRM’s constitution and established national laws. He further alleges that judge Teko actively promotes opposition interests in his local community and systematically disadvantages NRM litigants, stating, “You cannot win a case in his court if you are an NRM member.” The complaint suggests a pre-determined outcome in cases involving NRM members, with the judge allegedly anticipating and preparing to dismiss thier claims.
Bribery and Land Grabbing Allegations
Beyond political bias, the petition levels serious accusations of corruption. Rahim alleges that Judge Teko engaged in land grabbing,negotiating personal shares of land before issuing favorable judgments in related cases. A particularly damning claim involves a purported bribe of 50 million Ugandan shillings paid to overturn the election of the Kakumiro District youth Chairman, securing victory for the losing candidate.
These allegations, if proven, would represent a severe breach of judicial ethics and a betrayal of public trust. Rahim’s petition explicitly calls for a thorough examination into these financial dealings.
Questioning the Judge’s Qualifications
Perhaps the most serious allegation within the petition concerns the legitimacy of Judge Teko’s academic credentials.Rahim asserts that Judge Teko utilized the academic records of a deceased individual to gain entry into the judiciary. This claim demands immediate and rigorous investigation by the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) to verify the vetting processes employed by the JSC.
Call for Investigation and Judicial Reform
rahim’s petition is a direct appeal for accountability and a call to “clear the house” of unqualified and potentially corrupt officials. He argues that Judge Teko is unfit to serve on the High Court and should not be confirmed in his position. “For a country like Uganda to strive, we need credible people in positions of authority, not half-baked Judges who bring corruption to our societies,” the petition states.
Copies of the complaint have been distributed to a wide range of government officials, including the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Prime Minister, the Minister for Presidency, the Minister for security, and the NRM Secretary General, ensuring broad awareness of the allegations. Receipt stamps and handwritten notes on the documents confirm their delivery to the intended recipients.
Next Steps and Ongoing Concerns
As of this publication, Watchdog Uganda has not received responses from Judge Teko, the JSC, or any of the other officials who have received the petition. It is indeed crucial to emphasize that these are currently unverified allegations.However, they underscore persistent concerns regarding judicial impartiality within Uganda’s often-charged political landscape.
Under Article 146 of the Constitution, the JSC is mandated to investigate complaints against judicial officers. The Commission’s response to this petition will be closely watched.
This complaint arrives amidst broader calls for comprehensive judicial reform in Uganda, emphasizing the critical need for transparency in both judicial appointments and the delivery of rulings.As the nation prepares for future elections,ensuring a fair and impartial judiciary is paramount to maintaining public confidence and upholding the rule of law. Rahim has provided his contact details, indicating his willingness to cooperate fully with any investigation.
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