By Our Reporter
The Chairperson of the Busia District Local Government (LCV), Stephen Mugeni Wasike, has been re-arrested and charged with multiple criminal offenses, including wrongful confinement and threatening violence, following a disturbing incident involving the district’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
The arrest, which took place on Tuesday afternoon, was carried out by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit in collaboration with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). Mugeni was brought before the Busia Chief Magistrates Court and subsequently remanded to prison until June 16, 2025.
The charges stem from an incident that occurred on May 9, 2025, at the Busia District Headquarters. According to prosecutors, Mugeni unlawfully confined CAO David Lubuuka, allegedly threatening to assault him during a heated confrontation over a government vehicle. The confrontation, described as forceful and violent, reportedly took place in full view of district staff and is being characterized as unprofessional and unlawful.
In addition to the charges related to the confrontation, Mugeni is also facing allegations of theft of vehicle parts—specifically, the engine and gearbox—from a government-owned Toyota Hilux Double Cabin, registration number UAK 827Z. The vehicle is the property of the Busia District Local Government.
Multiple eyewitnesses from the district headquarters have already recorded statements, which authorities say played a crucial role in building the case against the LCV chairperson.
The case has raised fresh concerns over accountability and conduct among public officials at the district level. Anti-corruption agencies have vowed to pursue the matter to its conclusion, emphasizing that no official is above the law.
The court proceedings are set to resume next month as investigations continue.
