Kampala, Uganda – Buganda Road Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi has declined to grant bail to Tigist Ayalew, an Ethiopian national accused in a Shs 917 million land fraud case, citing concerns over her potential as a flight risk and the inadequacy of sureties presented in court. The case has been adjourned to September 10 for further consideration.
Ayalew is accused of forging a land lease agreement in an attempt to defraud Kampala businesswoman Kalpana Abe of approximately Shs 917 million. Prosecutors allege that the accused presented a fraudulent lease agreement, purportedly between SEMA Holding Limited and Ephrata Investments Group Limited, which later turned out to be fake.
Beyond the land fraud allegations, Ayalew faces additional charges for allegedly running businesses in Uganda without a valid work permit. These include managing two popular entertainment spots, Hide Out Lounge and Circuit Lounge, while also serving as director of Ephrata Investments.
During the ruling, Magistrate Kayizzi emphasized the seriousness of the accusations and the risks posed by Ayalew’s non–Ugandan status
“Considering that the accused is a non-Ugandan whom the state considers a flight risk, she ought to bring better sureties,” the magistrate stated, adding that none of the sureties presented demonstrated sufficient financial capacity to cover bond obligations should the accused abscond.
Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Joan Keko raised further objections during the bail proceedings, noting procedural gaps that warranted careful review.
The ruling underscores how Uganda’s courts weigh both legal procedure and practical considerations such as nationality in bail applications. While bail remains a constitutional right, the judiciary often demands stronger sureties in cases involving foreign nationals to mitigate flight risks.
For Ayalew, the decision leaves her in custody as prosecutors prepare to advance a case that not only highlights land fraud, a persistent problem in Uganda’s property sector, but also raises questions about compliance with immigration and business regulations.
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