The Kabale High Court has dismissed a petition filed by Mercy Atuhaire, the interdicted Senior Procurement Officer of Kabale District, challenging her suspension over alleged illegal procurement activities.
In a ruling dated July 10, 2025, His Lordship Justice Ssemogerere Karoli Lwanga ordered the closure of the case file, advising Atuhaire to exhaust available administrative remedies, particularly an appeal to the accounting officer before seeking judicial review.
Justice Ssemogerere also directed the applicant to file and serve an affidavit in rejoinder in the main case by July 17, 2025.
Atuhaire, through ADIL Advocates & Solicitors, had filed Miscellaneous Cause No. 007 of 2025 seeking to overturn her interdiction, which was issued on June 18, 2025, by then-Kabale District Chief Administrative Officer John Asiimwe.
The letter cited her alleged involvement in illegal procurement activities and implementation of ghost water projects during the 2022/2023 financial year.
The interdiction imposed several restrictions, including a travel ban without official clearance, prohibition from accessing district offices without permission, and a salary cut to half of her basic pay.
Atuhaire contended that the interdiction was irregular, illegal, and irrational, and sought a court order to halt its implementation.
While the court did not address the merits of the interdiction, it emphasized the importance of following internal administrative procedures before resorting to legal action.
