The search of Igara East MP Michael Mawanda's home in Lower Kololo Terrace marks a significant intensification in the government's anti-corruption efforts as his trial in the Anti-Corruption Court looms.
Police actively searched the home of Igara East MP Michael Mawanda in Lower Kololo Terrace as part of a sweeping corruption investigation, highlighting the government's determination to tackle high-profile graft.
Mawanda, detained last evening at Natete Police Station, faces charges over the alleged mismanagement of Shs 164 billion intended for cooperative compensation.
The dramatic raid follows the arrest of Mawanda and the summoning of Mbulambuli Constituency MP Ignatius Wamakuyu Mudimi to the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) last week, signaling the depth and seriousness of the corruption scandal.
Both MPs were called in to record statements regarding their alleged roles in the misappropriation of funds.
"The search of Mawanda's residence is a clear indication that we are leaving no stone unturned," said CID spokesperson Charles Twine. "We are committed to ensuring that those responsible for the mismanagement of public funds are held accountable."
Mawanda's involvement centers around the West Mengo Growers Cooperative Society, where he is accused of playing a pivotal role in the diversion of funds.
The scandal has drawn significant attention, not least because it involves substantial sums of money intended to support cooperative societies.Last year, state minister for trade, Harriet Ntababazi, disclosed that up to 30 legislators were under criminal investigation for their alleged participation in embezzling Shs 164 billion meant for compensating cooperatives.
This disclosure has since put numerous MPs under scrutiny, but the spotlight has remained on Mawanda and Mudimi.
Parliament's report, which was handed over to the CID and the Inspectorate of Government for further investigation, initially pointed to just two MPs—Elgon County's Mudimi Wamakuyu and Igara East's Michael Mawanda—as primary suspects.
However, the net appears to be widening, with former Kyankwanzi District Woman MP Anne Maria Nankabirwa also emerging as a target of the investigation.
"This is just the beginning. We are determined to follow through with these investigations until all the culprits are brought to justice," said Ntababazi. "The misuse of funds meant for the development of cooperatives is not just a financial crime, but a betrayal of the trust placed in public officials by the citizens."
Residents of Lower Kololo Terrace watched as police vehicles lined the streets early this morning.
The search at Mawanda’s home, coupled with the broader investigation, underscores a significant moment in Uganda's ongoing battle against corruption, setting a precedent that even high-ranking officials are not above the law.
With the Anti-Corruption Court set to hear the case soon, the public waits to see how justice will be served and whether this will mark a turning point in the fight against high-level corruption in the country.
