Kampala, Uganda – The Anti-Corruption Court has granted bail to Ronald Mukamasimwe, the assistant inventory management officer at Ntara Health Centre IV, who is a prime suspect in the high-profile Kitagwenda drug theft case.
Mukamasimwe’s release brings the total number of suspects out on bail to two, following the earlier release of his co-accused, Gladys Ithugu. However, Mukamasimwe’s co-accused, Allan Mumbere, remains in custody as he was unable to meet the court’s bail requirements.
Dr. Warren Naamara, the Executive Director of the State House Health Monitoring Unit (HMU), confirmed the development, stating that Mukamasimwe appeared before the court on Thursday and successfully met the bail conditions. “He was able to fulfill the terms and is now released,” Dr. Naamara informed The Nile Post.
The case, involving the illegal possession and sale of government-labeled medical supplies, including Paracetamol tablets, Cotrimoxazole capsules, and gloves marked “Government of Uganda – Not for Sale,” has drawn widespread attention. Mukamasimwe, Mumbere, Ithugu, and Julius Businge, a health information assistant at Mahyoro Health Centre III, are all implicated in the scandal, which came to light when police intercepted stolen medical supplies at Kyendangara Trading Centre in Mahyoro Town Council.
Dr. Naamara emphasized the seriousness of the case, highlighting the need for greater accountability and vigilance within Uganda’s health system. “We must protect medical supplies meant to save lives,” he said.
The court has adjourned the case to April 29, 2025, when the suspects are expected to return for further proceedings and interrogation. As the legal process continues, the case remains a focal point in the ongoing fight against corruption within Uganda’s public health facilities.
