On June 7, 2025, Uganda’s Court of Appeal, the second-highest court, declared prominent businessman Mohan Musisi Kiwanuka unfit to manage his business empire due to a mental health condition diagnosed back in 2017.
The court overturned a prior High Court ruling by accepting new medical evidence and family testimonials.
The decision temporarily transfers control of Kiwanuka’s businesses to his son, Jordan Ssebuliba Kiwanuka, for 30 days, tasking him with organizing a family meeting to plan the empire’s future.
Mohan Kiwanuka, a tycoon born into a privileged Buganda family, built his wealth during Uganda’s politically volatile years. He capitalized on opportunities in manufacturing, real estate, and hospitality, founding Oscar Industries, a big asset to his fortune. His portfolio spans 33 subsidiaries, 46 properties, and six holding companies, including prime real estate in Kololo and Nakasero hosting 13 foreign embassies.
Kiwanuka’s personal life involves two notable marriages. His first wife, Beatrice Kavuma Kiwanuka, is the mother of several children, including Jordan, who now plays a pivotal role in the legal proceedings.
His second wife, Maria Nabasirye Kiwanuka, served as Uganda’s Minister of Finance under President Yoweri Museveni and holds international acclaim in finance and public policy. Both marriages have shaped his family dynamics, which surfaced prominently in the court battle.
The legal dispute which began in 2019 when Jordan filed a petition in Uganda’s High Court, alleging his father’s mental incapacity to lead the business empire. Mohan Kiwanuka, backed by his legal team, vigorously defended his competence, arguing he remained fully capable. The High Court initially sided with Kiwanuka, citing insufficient evidence and respecting family autonomy.
However, the Court of Appeal’s recent ruling reversed this, emphasizing the compelling new medical reports and family accounts that highlighted Kiwanuka’s deteriorating condition since his 2017 diagnosis.
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