Busia District Chairperson, Stephen Wasike Mugeni has been rearrested and arraigned in court following allegations of wrongful confinement and threatening violence against the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Mr. David Lubuuka.
The incident, which allegedly occurred on Friday, May 9, 2025, at the Busia District Headquarters, has sparked widespread concern among residents and leaders across the district.
According to police reports and statements from district officials, Mugeni forcibly entered the CAO’s office and held Mr. Lubuuka hostage, demanding access to a government vehicle and its ignition key, which he insisted on using for personal transportation.
Security officers attempted to de-escalate the situation but Mugeni exercising his authority as LC5 Chairperson, allegedly continued to issue threats.
Witnesses say he blocked the CAO from exiting the office, vowing to “follow him everywhere, including to his home,” if his demands were not met. Though visibly shaken, the CAO was not harmed and later filed a formal complaint with police.
The matter was subsequently referred to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, which has been actively clamping down on misconduct among public officials.
Mugeni was arrested on Tuesday, May 21, during a community Baraza organized by the Anti-Corruption Unit at Busia Border Primary School an event ironically aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in governance.
He was taken into custody under tight security and presented before Grade One Magistrate Avako Specioza at the Busia Chief Magistrate’s Court.
The magistrate remanded him to Masafu Government Prison pending further mention of the case.
Mugeni now faces charges of wrongful confinement under Section 231 of the Penal Code Act, Cap 120, with potential additional counts including threatening violence and abuse of office.
This is not the first time the district chairperson has been at the center of controversy. In recent months, Mugeni was arrested over allegations of stealing parts from a government vehicle for use in his personal car a case that is still under investigation.
His latest arrest is being seen as a decisive step in what many observers view as a growing crackdown on impunity among local government leaders.
Civil society organizations and residents have largely welcomed the move, calling for a fair and transparent judicial process.
“No leader is above the law,” said a district official who requested anonymity. “The people of Busia deserve leaders who serve, not intimidate.”
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit confirmed the arrest, reinforcing its commitment to restoring integrity in public service.
“Public office is a trust, not a throne,” said a junior officer within the unit, speaking on condition of anonymity. “This arrest sends a clear message that abuse of power will not be tolerated.”
The case is set for mention next week as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, leadership in Busia District is expected to undergo a temporary reshuffle, with the Vice Chairperson likely to assume interim responsibilities.