6/7/2026
The Industrial Court has ordered FINCA Uganda Limited to pay its former employee, Gordon Bajunana, a total of Shs51 million in punitive damages, general damages and statutory severance pay after finding the financial institution guilty of unlawful dismissal.
While giving his judgment on July 1, 2026, Justice Anthony Wabwire Musana ruled in favour of Bajunana, bringing to a close a labour dispute that has been before court since 2017.
Court documents indicate that Bajunana challenged the circumstances under which his employment was terminated, accusing the microfinance institution of breaching labour laws and failing to follow due process.
Records indicate that Bajunana was an official employee of FINCA Uganda Limited before his services were terminated under conditions he later contested in court. He reasoned that the termination was effected without adherence to established legal procedures.
He further claimed that the company failed to accord him a fair hearing and did not justify its decision to end his employment, prompting him to seek redress before the Industrial Court.
In his decision, Justice Anthony Wabwire awarded Bajunana punitive damages of Shs18,018,000 and general damages of Shs18,018,000 and severance pay of Shs 15,015,000. All the awarded sums will attract interest at 15 percent per annum from the date of judgment until full payment.
However, the judge dismissed the claimant’s request for additional compensation under Section 78 of the Employment Act, citing insufficient evidence to justify further awards.
Finally, the claimant was also awarded costs of the suit, increasing financial burden on FINCA Uganda Limited.
By Mugula Dan
