By Our Reporter
In a stunning turn of events, Obam Andrew, a practicing advocate, has been formally charged with money laundering in connection with the fraudulent theft of over USD 56,500 from Professor George Kanyeihamba, a retired Supreme Court Justice and one of Uganda’s most respected legal minds.
The charges were brought forward by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (@AntiGraft_SH), in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
According to prosecutors, between October 2022 and September 2024, Obam allegedly conspired with Kaliisa David, a driver employed by Professor Kanyeihamba, to steal and launder money using forged and stolen cheques belonging to the legal icon.
The funds were reportedly diverted into the bank account of Loi Advocates, a law firm where Obam is the sole signatory, raising red flags about the direct funneling of illicit funds into his personal control.
The accused was arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court on Tuesday and subsequently remanded until July 14, 2025, when he is expected to enter a formal plea.
This case has sparked outrage within Uganda’s legal circles, given Professor Kanyeihamba’s revered status and legacy as a staunch defender of constitutionalism and human rights.
A senior investigator involved in the case described the incident as a “deep betrayal of trust from within the legal profession itself,” adding that the probe is ongoing to determine whether other accomplices may be linked to the scheme.
If convicted, Obam faces serious jail time under Uganda’s Anti-Money Laundering Act, in addition to potential disbarment from legal practice.
The Anti-Corruption Unit has urged members of the public, especially professionals in sensitive roles, to uphold integrity and remain vigilant against internal fraud and abuse of privilege.
This high-profile case marks another bold move in Uganda’s crackdown on white-collar crime and reinforces the government’s commitment to ensuring no one is above the law — not even those entrusted to uphold it.
