Three officials of Mitooma District Local Government have been arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court over the alleged diversion and misuse of public funds intended for road works.
The accused are Acting District Engineer Tumwebaze John Baptist, District Road Inspector Mandela Franklin, and Sector Accountant Aheereza Lydia. They have been remanded in custody until October 16, 2026.
The trio faces several charges, including abuse of office, conspiracy to commit an offence, diversion of public resources, causing financial loss, embezzlement, and making false claims.
According to the prosecution, the charges stem from funds allocated to Mitooma District Local Government for the mechanised removal of bottlenecks on four roads: Katwe–Karangara–Karimbiro, Kirambi–Kirera–Ruziizi, Omuribiri–Nyakizinga–Mutaka, and Kyanzaire–Bukuba.
It is alleged that between June 17 and 30, 2026, at the district offices, the accused diverted part of the funds to pay Shs31,162,400 for fuel that was allegedly never supplied, as well as allowances for road works that were reportedly not carried out.
The alleged actions resulted in a financial loss of Shs45,066,400 to the government, according to the charges.
The arrests and subsequent arraignment followed complaints and investigations arising from the Expose the Corrupt National Campaign, spearheaded by the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, to strengthen accountability and combat corruption in local governments.
The case underscores ongoing efforts by anti-corruption agencies to promote transparency and ensure that public funds are used for their intended purposes.
The accused have been remanded as the case proceeds through the court process. The allegations remain unproven unless established by a court of law.
