The Anti-Corruption Court has charged and remanded the Bulambuli District Engineer and the District Health Officer over allegations of abuse of office, causing financial loss and neglect of duty in cases involving more than Shs1.027 billion.
The accused, Eng. Walimbwa Paul, the Bulambuli District Engineer, and Dr. Mulongo Muhamed Richard, the District Health Officer, were arraigned by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, working jointly with the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
The two officials were remanded until August 3, 2026.
According to the prosecution, Eng. Walimbwa allegedly abused his office during the 2021/2022 financial year by directing the supply of door frames and window casements in quantities exceeding those required and approved for the construction of the Bulambuli District Administration Block.
It is alleged that he bypassed the prescribed procurement procedures and failed to obtain the necessary approvals, resulting in a financial loss to the government of more than Shs20 million.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit also revealed that Eng. Walimbwa is under separate investigation over the alleged misappropriation of a Shs1 billion road project in Bulambuli District.
Preliminary findings from the Ministry of Works and Transport’s Mbale Regional Materials Laboratory indicate that garden soil was allegedly used instead of the approved gravel and murram during the construction of the Kimulu–Tunyi Road. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mulongo has been charged with abuse of office, causing financial loss and negligence over the construction of a pit latrine at Muyembe Health Centre IV during the 2021/2022 financial year.
Prosecutors allege that he irregularly supervised the construction in contravention of approved standards and procedures for health facilities and requisitioned Shs7 million for the project despite the works allegedly failing to meet the required standards.
The prosecution says the pit latrine has never become operational since its construction, leading to the loss of public funds intended to improve healthcare service delivery.
The arrests are part of the ongoing nationwide expose the corrupt campaign spearheaded by the Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, targeting corruption in local governments, with the campaign having commenced in Eastern Uganda.
The case will return to court on August 3, 2026.
