Busia District Chairman Stephen Mugeni Wasike has been remanded to prison after appearing before the Busia Chief Magistrate’s Court on charges of theft involving critical components of a public vehicle.
According to a joint operation by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mugeni is accused of stealing the engine and gearbox of a Toyota Hilux Double Cabin, registration number UAK 827Z.
The vehicle was parked at the district headquarters when the alleged incident occurred on March 8, 2025.
Investigators estimate the value of the stolen parts at about Shs30 million.
The vehicle is property of Busia District Local Government and was designated for service delivery in the strategically located border district.
Mugeni, who has served as district chairperson since 2016, is known for championing border trade reforms and infrastructure initiatives.
However, his tenure has not been without controversy, with previous allegations of mismanagement of public resources — claims he has consistently denied.
The court session on Thursday drew interest from district officials and members of the public, many of whom expressed disbelief at the charges.
Dressed simply in a plain shirt and trousers, Mugeni appeared subdued as the charges were read.
The magistrate did not allow him to take plea, stating that investigations were still ongoing.
He was remanded until May 8, 2025, to allow further inquiries into the matter.
The prosecution indicated that additional charges may follow if more evidence surfaces linking him to other instances of asset misappropriation.
This arrest comes amid a renewed crackdown on corruption in local government structures.
The Anti-Corruption Unit has stepped up efforts to tackle abuse of office, with particular focus on the misuse of government property and diversion of public funds.
Busia district authorities have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the possible leadership vacuum should Mugeni face extended detention or eventual conviction.
Meanwhile, civil society groups in the area are urging for transparency and expedited legal proceedings to preserve public confidence in local governance.