By The Chairperson of Busia District Local Government, Stephen Mugeni Wasike, has been re-arrested and remanded to prison over fresh charges of wrongful confinement and threatening violence, stemming from a confrontation with the district’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) over a government vehicle.
According to a statement released by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, Mugeni was re-arraigned before the Chief Magistrates Court in Busia on Tuesday afternoon and has been remanded until June 16, 2025.
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The charges follow an incident that occurred on May 9, 2025, at the Busia District Headquarters, where Mugeni allegedly unlawfully detained CAO David Lubuuka and threatened to assault him while aggressively demanding access to a government vehicle. Witnesses described the scene as tense and chaotic, prompting immediate concern from district staff and observers.
The vehicle at the center of the dispute—a Toyota Hilux double cabin, registration number UAK 827Z—was reportedly missing critical parts, including its engine and gearbox, which investigators believe were stolen. Mugeni now faces additional charges related to the theft of these components, property of the Busia District Local Government.
Investigations into the matter were led jointly by the Anti-Corruption Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). Multiple witnesses from the district were interviewed and provided evidence that led to the formal charges.
Authorities have condemned Mugeni’s actions as a gross abuse of office and a violation of public service conduct. “Holding a government official hostage and interfering with public property is unacceptable and will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” said a spokesperson for the Anti-Corruption Unit.
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This is not the first time Mugeni has faced scrutiny during his tenure. His re-arrest marks a deepening of legal troubles and adds to growing calls for greater accountability among local government officials.
The court proceedings will resume next month, and if convicted, Mugeni could face imprisonment, dismissal from office, or both. Meanwhile, district leadership remains under tension as the case continues to unfold.
