In a shocking turn of events, a recently appointed magistrate, Musa Semwogerere, found himself on the wrong side of the law after being arrested for posing as a woman to sit for exams on behalf of his girlfriend, Irene Mutonyi, at the Law Development Centre (LDC) in Lira, Uganda.
The incident, which has captured the attention of the nation, unfolded on Friday, July 28, 2023, when Semwogerere, affectionately known as Mukisa Anthony, was caught red-handed during the examination session. Pictures of him disguised as a woman, with braided hair, have since gone viral on social media, igniting a flurry of reactions from the public.
Semwogerere had only recently been promoted to the esteemed rank of grade one magistrate by the Judicial Service Commission, a mere two weeks before his audacious act of deception came to light. However, his newly acquired position did not shield him from the law.
The LDC director, Frank Nigel Othembi, confirmed that Semwogerere’s actions were a blatant violation of the law. He stated that the accused has been charged with two counts of forgery, in contravention of Section 351 of the Penal Code Act, and impersonation, contrary to Section 381 of the Penal Code Act. As a consequence, Semwogerere has been remanded to prison until August 3, pending further legal proceedings.
Expressing the LDC’s firm stance against examination malpractice, Othembi emphasized their zero-tolerance policy towards any such conduct. He assured the public that the case would be pursued rigorously, ensuring that justice is served and all those involved face the consequences of their actions.
Subsequently, the Judiciary also weighed in on the matter, confirming Semwogerere’s appointment as a grade one magistrate on June 12, 2023, by the Judicial Service Commission, alongside 86 other individuals. However, in light of the recent scandal, the Judiciary announced its decision to relieve Semwogerere of his appointment.
The Chief Registrar, Her Worship Sarah Langa Siu, clarified that the appointment process for the magistrate grade one officers was still underway. However, once the process is completed, they will be sworn in as part of their official duties.
