By Our Reporter
The Chairperson of Busia District Local Government, Stephen Mugeni Wasike, has been formally charged and remanded to prison over allegations of stealing vehicle parts belonging to the district.
Wasike appeared before the Busia Chief Magistrate’s Court earlier today, following his arrest and arraignment by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit in coordination with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
According to court documents, the charges stem from an incident that occurred on March 8, 2025, at the Busia District Local Government parking yard. Wasike is accused of stealing key components — including an engine and a gearbox — from a government-owned Toyota Hilux double cabin pickup truck, registration number UAK 827Z. The stolen parts are valued at approximately UGX 30 million.
The vehicle is said to be property of the Busia District Local Government, and the loss triggered a formal investigation into suspected misuse of public assets.
Wasike did not take plea during the court appearance, and the presiding magistrate ordered that he be remanded until May 8, 2025, when the case will return to court for further mention.
The case has sparked widespread attention within the district, as Wasike is a prominent figure in local leadership. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and vowed to continue working with law enforcement agencies to ensure that public resources are protected.
Further investigations into the matter are ongoing.
