Minister Balaam orders arrest, interdiction of Mbarara City officials

What the report says

Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara has ordered the arrest and interdiction of senior Mbarara City officials, according to Nile Post, over allegations including financial loss to government, procurement irregularities and misuse of public funds. The action was taken during his visit to Mbarara City on Tuesday and affects nine officials, including City Clerk Justine Barekye, her deputy Simon Ejua and City Engineer Hillary Mugisha.

Nile Post reported that the minister accused the officials of approving the purchase of land in a wetland for about Shs200 million, saying the transaction should not have gone ahead. He also alleged that the city leadership mismanaged and embezzled Shs712 million collected through property tax. In addition, he said the officials had previously pushed for the interdiction of senior procurement officer Dinah Mwije, who was later cleared and reinstated after investigation.

Following the directive, police and CID officers were instructed to escort the officials, collect statements and have them step aside while inquiries continue. The interdiction is understood to suspend their duties and access to government records during the investigation. The ministry is expected to arrange interim leadership so city operations can continue.

The development fits into a broader accountability drive by the Ministry of Local Government against alleged corruption and financial mismanagement in local governments. If upheld, the case could have implications for procurement oversight, property tax handling and internal controls in Mbarara City and beyond.