The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has formally arrested Igara County MP Michael Mawanda in connection with the alleged financial mismanagement of war loss compensation funds. Mawanda, who also chairs the Disciplinary Committee of the Patriotic League Uganda (PLU), was detained after a lengthy interrogation at CID headquarters in Kibuli.
On Wednesday, Mawanda, along with Elgon County MP Nyasio Mudimi Wamakuyu, appeared at CID headquarters to address allegations concerning the misappropriation of compensation funds designated for cooperatives. While the specifics of the interrogation remain undisclosed, it was confirmed that Mawanda was arrested at approximately 6:30 PM. He was subsequently escorted by heavily-armed counter-terrorism personnel to Nateete Police Station, where he is expected to spend the night in detention.
Mawanda’s arrest is linked to his involvement with the West Mengo Growers Cooperative Society. The cooperative had engaged JM Musisi and Co. Advocates to claim UGX 14 billion from the Ministry of Trade, intended as compensation for losses suffered during Uganda’s civil wars. However, despite not being a shareholder, Mawanda advised the SACCO to hire M/S Justin Mungoma and Co. Advocates to handle the claims.
Following Mawanda’s recommendation, the Ministry of Trade released UGX 2 billion to the SACCO via the law firm. However, only UGX 50 million of the funds reached the intended beneficiaries. Muusa Bagala, the accountant for West Mengo Growers Cooperative Society, testified before a parliamentary committee chaired by Mwine Mpaka, stating that upon discovering the disbursement, he confronted Mawanda at his parliamentary office. Bagala recounted that Mawanda suggested a UGX 50 million “token” for the SACCO’s leaders, which was facilitated by M/S Justin Mungoma and Co. Advocates at KCB Bank in Kampala.
The arrest of Mawanda signifies a critical juncture in the ongoing investigation into the alleged embezzlement of compensation funds meant for cooperatives. The CID’s actions underscore the seriousness of the charges and the commitment to holding those responsible accountable. As the investigation proceeds, further details are anticipated to clarify the scope of Mawanda’s involvement and potential implications for other implicated individuals.
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