Ghosts of the defunct Movement political system have returned to haunt the government, as two former deputy directors of the Movement Secretariat are claiming over Shs60 million in compensation.

Mr Serapio Karashani and Mr Cranimer Kalinda were deputy directors at the Movement Secretariat before Uganda opted for a multiparty system of governance in 2005 through a referendum.

They have sued the government for termination of their employment and want over Shs60, 480,000 in damages. Mr Karashani and Mr Kalinda filed their case at Kampala High Court on May 14, 2008.

"Our claim for special and general damages arises out of premature termination of our contracts with the Movement Secretariat," read part of the case filed through Kampala Associate Advocates.

The two men were reportedly appointed as deputy directors at the Movement Secretariat in November 7, 2001 on contractual terms for a period of five years.

But by the virtue of the change of political system, Mr Karashani and Mr Kalinda had their contracts of employment prematurely terminated on February 23, 2006.

"The plaintiffs contend that they are entitled to the payment of their salaries and other benefits (and) special damages as well," reads part of the plaint.

If their case succeeds, the two will get eight months salaries and allowances totalling to Shs43.3 million. They will also receive gratuity totalling to Shs17.3 million.

The two claim that the matter relating to their unpaid salaries and allowances was referred to the Solicitor General (SG) who confirmed that they deserve the payment.

"In spite of admission of liability, the government has not paid our clients," the lawyers representing the two said.

The lawyers wrote that Mr Karashani and Mr Kalinda have as a result suffered inconvenience, mental anguish and distress for which they seek general damages.

They further demand costs of the suit and interest of 25 per cent per annum from the date of breach of contract till payment in full.