The Anti-Corruption Court has referred interdicted Lands Commissioner Sarah Kulata’s case to the High Court for interpretation.
Trial Grade One Magistrate Sarah Langa made her ruling on Monday morning basing on the arguments of Kulata’s lawyer last week. Michael Okecha raised a preliminary objection questioning the powers of the IGG to prosecute his client.
Okecha cited Section 19 of the IGG Act 2009, which he said bars the Inspectorate from prosecuting somebody while there is a civil case touching the same matter in another court, saying it could have a bearing on the criminal matter.
Prosecution led by Sydney Asubo states that between July 9 and Agust 4 at the Lands registry in Kampala, Kulata allegedly transferred land worth over ten billion shillings in the name of Kikoyongo Investments Ltd, who are not the legitimate owner.
The land measuring about 300 acres and located in Wakiso district is believed to belong to Lakeside City Limited and owned by the Damani family of Asian origin.
In August, Lakeside City Ltd dragged Kulata and four others to the High Court over their alleged role of, among others, registering Lakeside Township Ltd as the legitimate proprietor. The case is still pending.
Magistrate Langa set 12th December for court to make its final ruling after consulting with the High Court.
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