The High Court in Masaka has rejected a bail application by Reverend Father Deusdedit Ssekabira, a Catholic priest from Masaka Diocese, who faces money laundering charges.

In her ruling, Justice Victoria Nakintu Katamba denied the bail request and instead ordered an expedited trial of the case.

Fr. Ssekabira, represented by lawyers Alexander Lule and Samuel Ssekyewa, had sought bail on the grounds that he remains a suspect entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.

He also informed the court that he endured emotional torture during his detention in undisclosed military facilities and requested release to better prepare his defence outside prison.

The priest presented three sureties: Fr. Dr. Jude Jjuko (Chancellor of Masaka Diocese), Kalungu West MP Joseph Gonzaga Ssewungu, and his younger brother Andrew Matovu.

Senior State Attorney Deborah Itwau opposed bail, describing the offence as a serious economic crime of significant public interest. She argued that releasing the accused could interfere with ongoing investigations and potentially undermine the trial.

She assured the court that investigations were advancing well and committed the prosecution to a swift start of proceedings.

Justice Nakintu accepted the prosecution’s position and the promise of an expeditious trial, ruling that it served the interests of justice to prioritize the matter.

She directed the Masaka High Court Registrar to schedule the case for hearing beginning February 10.

The judge added that the court could revisit the bail decision if the state fails to commence prosecution as pledged.

The ruling drew visible disappointment from Fr. Ssekabira’s legal team and a large number of Catholic faithfuls who packed the courtroom in anticipation of his release.

Defence lawyer Alexander Lule expressed strong dissatisfaction afterward, accusing security agencies of impunity.

He pointed out that the agencies had not yet filed responses in a separate lawsuit alleging illegal detention of the priest.

Fr. Ssekabira was arrested on December 3, 2025, and remained missing for over two weeks under unclear circumstances. His location was only confirmed when the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) issued a statement acknowledging he was in military custody.

He was subsequently charged with money laundering.

Prosecutors allege that he knowingly concealed Shs 500 million by disguising himself as the legitimate owner, despite being aware the funds were proceeds of crime.