Behind Uganda’s bustling infrastructure projects lies a tale of corruption, manipulation, and exploitation.
At the heart of this story is Alex Mukomazi Lutaaya, a man whose dealings have raised questions about the integrity of the nation’s institutions.
This investigative piece delves into his operations, shedding light on the mechanisms that allow such deception to persist.
The UNRA Scandal: A Multi-Billion Shilling Fraud
In what has become one of Uganda’s most significant fraud cases, Alex Mukomazi’s name surfaced during an investigation into an 11.8 billion Ugandan shillings scandal involving the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA). His company, Lunas Enterprises Ltd, had secured a contract to supply guardrails—critical components for road safety. However, evidence suggests the company failed to fulfill its obligations. Fraudulent delivery notes, allegedly issued by UNRA store manager John Mbidde, supported Mukomazi’s false claims of delivery. In exchange, Mbidde reportedly received a bribe of 600 million shillings, which he used to establish Veronica Transport Services Ltd.
When the fraud unraveled, it became clear that the financial loss was just the tip of the iceberg. The case, initially registered as AC-CO-007/2022, faced prolonged delays due to alleged interference, eventually being transferred to the Anti-Corruption High Court under AC-SC-0003-2024. Despite the gravity of the case, progress remains sluggish.
The Mysterious Death of Godfrey Kabunga
Key witnesses often play pivotal roles in fraud cases, but their safety remains a glaring issue in Uganda. Godfrey Kabunga, a diligent ICT officer at UNRA’s Kampala headquarters, was tasked with verifying the delivery of guardrails by Lunas Enterprises Ltd.
His findings, corroborated by CCTV footage from Mpigi, revealed that no such deliveries had occurred.
Tragically, Kabunga’s life was cut short before he could testify. On February 17, 2021, he was struck by a trailer at the Ntinda-Kisaasi roundabout. His death, officially ruled an accident, left many unanswered questions.
The failure to protect witnesses like Kabunga underscores systemic flaws. Despite the 2019 launch of witness protection guidelines by the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) in collaboration with the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), implementation remains weak. Witnesses fear for their lives, and cases often collapse due to intimidation or loss of critical testimony.
Exploiting the System: Tax Evasion and Manipulation
Mukomazi’s fraudulent schemes extend beyond UNRA. Through companies such as Duke Light Investments Ltd and Lunas Enterprises Ltd, he reportedly evaded taxes amounting to over 12 billion shillings. Evidence suggests that he manipulated Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) systems, with insiders altering codes to reduce his tax liabilities.
In one instance, Mukomazi applied for tax exemptions on agricultural products, only to import construction materials instead. His companies were accused of under-declaring goods and forging documents to avoid paying taxes. Despite URA’s knowledge of these activities, enforcement efforts have been minimal.
One of Mukomazi’s companies, Havans International Contractors Ltd, secured a significant 25-billion-shilling contract with UNRA despite being newly established in 2019 and lacking verifiable experience. Investigations revealed that the company used forged documents to pass procurement checks. Although one contract was eventually canceled, another was inexplicably allowed to proceed, raising questions about oversight and accountability.
A Network of Hidden Wealth
Mukomazi’s wealth is carefully obscured through a network of shell companies and properties held under the names of relatives. Properties linked to him but registered in his wife’s names include substantial holdings in Buwate, Luwero, and Zirobwe.
His wife, a nutritionist employed by UNICEF, owns assets worth millions of dollars, far exceeding what her modest salary would suggest.
Mukomazi’s modus operandi involves operating companies where his name does not appear as a director, yet he remains the sole signatory on bank accounts. This arrangement allows him to maintain control while evading scrutiny.
Institutional Failures and Insider Collusion
The success of Mukomazi’s schemes lies not only in his cunning but also in systemic failures within Uganda’s institutions. Insiders within UNRA, URA, and other government bodies have reportedly facilitated his activities. For instance, former URA employees, such as one identified as Timothy, allegedly helped manipulate systems to evade taxes. Mukomazi also used legal threats to intimidate institutions into compliance.
The lack of accountability also erodes public trust in government institutions. When accussed individuals like Mukomazi evade justice, it sends a message that with money you can get away with any case in Uganda.
Calls for Reform
To combat fraud and restore public trust, Uganda’s institutions must address systemic weaknesses. Key reforms include:
Strengthening Witness Protection: Ensuring the safety of witnesses like Kabunga is paramount. Robust protection programs must be implemented to encourage whistleblowers to come forward without fear of retaliation.
Enhancing Oversight Mechanisms: Institutions such as UNRA and URA must establish stricter procurement and tax compliance processes to prevent manipulation.
Holding Insiders Accountable: Employees who facilitate fraud must face consequences. This includes not only termination but also prosecution to deter others from engaging in similar activities.
Judicial Integrity: The judiciary must operate independently and without bias. Allegations of interference must be thoroughly investigated, and implicated judges held accountable.
Conclusion: A Test for Uganda’s Institutions
Alex Mukomazi Lutaaya’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked systems.
His ability to outmaneuver institutions highlights systemic flaws that must be addressed if Uganda is to move forward.
The question remains: Can Uganda’s institutions rise to the challenge and hold Mukomazi accountable? Or will he continue to thrive in the shadows, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake?
As investigations continue, the spotlight is on Uganda’s leaders to take decisive action. The fate of the nation’s integrity depends on their ability to confront and dismantle the networks that facilitate impunity.
