Uganda Charges Eight Finance Officials Over $21 Million Hacking Scandal

Eight officials from Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, including the top accountant, have been charged with corruption, electronic fraud, and money laundering following a significant hacking incident that resulted in the theft of at least $21 million from the central bank. The hacking involved the redirection of funds intended for the International Development Association (IDA) to companies in Japan, Poland, and the UK. Court documents indicate that one IT officer manipulated payment instructions to facilitate the theft, while the accountant failed to implement necessary safeguards for public funds. The officials were remanded in custody until February 18, as the seriousness of the charges means they will be tried in the high court. This incident highlights ongoing issues of corruption and vulnerabilities within Uganda's financial systems, prompting calls for improved oversight. The case has drawn significant media attention, reflecting broader concerns about accountability in the country's financial sector.