By Our Reporter
A joint operation by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has led to the arrest and arraignment of several officials from Busia Municipal Council over the alleged embezzlement of public funds.
The accused were presented before the Busia Chief Magistrates Court on Friday and charged with theft and conspiracy to defraud the government. The charges stem from the alleged misappropriation of a UGX 1 billion road maintenance grant intended to improve infrastructure within Busia Municipality.
Key Accused Officials Include:
-
Baganzi Ronald Ross – Former Town Clerk, Busia MC; now Town Clerk, Kumi
-
Kiganda James Farouk – Municipal Engineer
-
Chimulwa Wycliffe – Principal Accountant
-
Sekamanya Martin – Assistant Engineering Officer
-
Kundu Javenarly – Foreman, Works Department
-
Kyaligonza Christopher – Manager, Shell Busia
-
Mukisa Were – Assistant Manager, Shell Busia
Fuel Scheme Uncovered
According to investigators, the accused individuals used the engineering department as a cover to siphon public funds in a fraudulent fuel supply scheme. Working in collusion with Shell Busia fuel station staff, funds were allegedly routed through the station under the guise of fuel purchases for municipal road works.
Preliminary findings show that over UGX 200 million was siphoned off in this fraudulent arrangement, although the full extent of the loss is still under investigation.
Additional Charges in PDM Scheme
In a separate but related matter, Asset David, Chairperson of North “C” Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCO, has also been charged with soliciting bribes from SACCO beneficiaries in exchange for access to government funds intended for poverty alleviation.
All the accused individuals have been remanded until May 30, 2025, as investigations continue and more evidence is expected to be presented.
The prosecutions follow a series of barazas (community engagement meetings) held by the Anti-Corruption Unit in Busia, where residents voiced serious concerns about misuse of public funds, poor road conditions, and lack of transparency in service delivery.
The arrests mark a significant development in Uganda’s ongoing efforts to tackle corruption at the local government level, particularly in the implementation of infrastructure and community development programs.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has reiterated its commitment to responding to public grievances and holding accountable those who misuse public funds, regardless of their rank or office.
