The Parliamentary Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has summoned businessman Hassan Basajjabalaba to appear in person and explain the circumstances surrounding a disputed Shs140 billion Bank of Uganda guarantee.
The decision was reached on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, after Basajjabalaba failed to appear before the committee, which is investigating the guarantee and the roles played by his Haba Group, Bank of Uganda and other parties involved.
Basajjabalaba was represented by lawyer Calvin Ojambo of Magina Advocates, who asked the committee to grant his client additional time to prepare for the hearing.
Ojambo told the committee that they had received Parliament’s invitation late on Tuesday, September 15, and that Basajjabalaba was indisposed. He also said the businessman needed more time to access documents relating to transactions dating back to 2009–2011.
The lawyers proposed September 23 or 24 as alternative dates for Basajjabalaba to appear.
The request sparked debate among committee members, with some MPs supporting the extension while others expressed concern that repeated delays could undermine parliamentary scrutiny.
Buzaaya County MP Martin Kisule questioned why the summons had been served through a law firm rather than directly to Basajjabalaba, whose address was reportedly known.
COSASE Chairperson Muwada Nkunyingi said the committee was still at the investigative stage and would examine the conduct and responsibilities of all parties before reaching its findings.
He said the committee’s main concern was to establish what happened to the Shs140 billion and understand the circumstances under which Bank of Uganda issued the guarantee and the subsequent efforts to recover the funds.
Following the debate, the committee resolved that Basajjabalaba must appear in person on September 23, 2026. The new summons will be served through a police officer.
The inquiry will examine the contractual terms of the guarantee, the obligations of the parties involved, the basis for Bank of Uganda’s involvement and the current status of the recovery process.
