KAMPALA – October 24, 2025 – In a landmark ruling that underscores the government's ongoing anti-corruption drive, Ateng Francis, a former senior official at the Lira Lands Ministry, has been convicted and remanded to Luzira Prison for his central role in the illegal sale of prime land belonging to the Uganda Railway Corporation (URC).
The Chief Magistrate of the Anti-Corruption Division, Rachel Nakyazze, found Ateng guilty on all eleven counts brought against him, including abuse of office, uttering false documents, forgery, and conspiracy to commit a felony. The court heard how Ateng, who served as Principal Assistant Secretary, systematically orchestrated the fraud between January 2018 and January 2020.
Evidence presented during the trial revealed that Ateng collaborated with businessman Ocen Joseph to identify, forge documents for, and sell off valuable URC land. Ocen Joseph, who was a co-accused in the case, earlier pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme and was sentenced to two years in prison.
The prosecution's case was built on a foundation of meticulously forged land titles and transfer documents, which Ateng used his official position to process and authenticate. Testimonies from multiple witnesses, including fellow civil servants and URC officials, cemented the court's finding that Ateng had betrayed the public trust for personal gain.
While Ateng and Ocen have been brought to justice, a third accomplice, Ogwang Walter, remains at large. A warrant for his arrest is still active.
Following the delivery of the verdict, a subdued Ateng Francis was led from the courtroom. In a final, futile attempt to shield himself from public scrutiny, he used a face mask to cover his face from waiting photographers and cameras as he was transported to begin his incarceration at Luzira.
Chief Magistrate Nakyazze has set November 7, 2025, as the date for sentencing. Ateng will remain on remand until that time, when he will learn the full extent of his punishment for crimes that have been described as a severe assault on public property and integrity. The case has sent ripples through the lands ministry, prompting calls for tighter controls and oversight to prevent similar fraud.
