A storm is brewing in eastern Uganda following the arrest of a district engineer over the alleged misappropriation of UGX 300 million earmarked for a road project in Bungokho North Constituency.
Local Government Minister Balaam Ateenyi ordered swift action after an on-site inspection revealed glaring discrepancies in the construction of the 6-kilometre Kyasura–Bukingala road.
Despite official records indicating the funds had been fully utilised by June 2026, the road was found in a poor and nearly impassable condition.
“On inspection of road projects in Bungokho North Constituency today, we found disturbing evidence of the alleged misappropriation of UGX 300 million,” Ateenyi said in a statement.
The inspection team included Members of Parliament Justine Namere, Shafiga, and Mohammad Masaba, alongside district security officials, administrative leaders, and local residents.
The delegation reportedly struggled to access the project site due to the state of the road.
“Despite records indicating that UGX 300 million had been spent by June 2026, the road remained in such a poor condition that all our vehicles got stuck, forcing us to walk approximately 3 km,” the minister added.
The shocking findings triggered immediate arrests, with the Mbale District Engineer taken into custody to assist with investigations.
Authorities say the matter has now been handed over to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID).
“Following these findings, the Mbale District Engineer was arrested to assist with investigations into the alleged misappropriation of public funds,” Ateenyi confirmed.
The minister issued a strong warning to public officials, signaling a firm stance against corruption in infrastructure projects.
“The era of stealing money meant for roads and other public infrastructure in local governments is over. Every shilling allocated for service delivery must be accounted for,” he said.
Residents in Bungokho North have welcomed the crackdown, expressing hope that accountability will lead to proper completion of the road and improved service delivery.