The Industrial Court of Uganda has ordered the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to pay UGX 51 million to its former compliance manager, David Kalemera, for denying him a fair hearing during his termination process.
Justice Anthony Wabwire Musana in his ruling held that while URA had valid grounds to terminate Kalemera over his alleged involvement in a UGX 518.5 million tax fraud scheme, the dismissal process was marred by serious procedural flaws that rendered it unlawful.
The court found that URA breached the principles of natural justice by failing to grant Kalemera sufficient notice before his disciplinary hearing, withholding critical evidence, and denying him the right to cross-examine key witnesses, including a Chinese national, Wang Lei, whose transactions were central to the fraud allegations.
Justice Musana noted that Kalemera’s right to a fair hearing guaranteed under both the Constitution and labor laws was blatantly disregarded.
The judge further observed that URA’s internal disciplinary committee appeared biased, having made determinations before giving Kalemera a chance to respond to the allegations.
Kalemera’s lawyers successfully argued that the failure to furnish him with the full investigation report and witness statements amounted to a denial of justice.
They also emphasized his previously unblemished 12-year record at the authority, during which he received several commendations for integrity and performance.
Kalemera was awarded UGX 51,053,836.9 including UGX 3.4 million for four weeks’ pay, UGX 6.9 million in general damages, and UGX 40.5 million as a service award.
Justice Musana reminded public institutions to uphold fairness and transparency, saying even when an employee is suspected of misconduct, the law demands that due process must be observed.
Report by: Betty Zziwa
