Kaberamido, Uganda – The Chief Magistrate of Kaberamido, Her Worship Patricia Ndagire, has released Alwa Sub county LC III Chairperson, John Odongo Ekongolat and Sub county Chief, Eripu Emmanuel, on bail after they were charged with stealing a government tricycle meant to help farmers transport their produce.
The duo appeared in court on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 and denied the charges.
According to prosecution records, Odongo allegedly broke into the Alwa Subcounty stores and used his authority to take the tricycle, which he later sold to scrap dealers in Dokolo District. The alleged incident took place in broad daylight on February 11, 2025.
After taking the tricycle, Odongo reportedly went to Alwa Police Station and reported the case himself, positioning himself as the complainant.
Investigations, however, linked him and the sub county chief, leading to their arrest and subsequent remand to Kaberamido Government Prison.
Both officials were charged with theft under case file number CRB 040/1/2025.
The charges fall under Uganda’s Penal Code, which penalizes public officers who abuse their authority to engage in criminal activities.
During their bail application, their lawyer argued that the accused were prominent leaders in the community and not flight risks.
The court agreed to grant them bail, setting a cash bail of 1.5 million UGX for each of them, while their sureties were placed on a non-cash bond of 5 million UGX each.
Her Worship Patricia Ndagire ordered the accused to return to court on March 19, 2025, for further hearing of the case.
The arrest of the two leaders has sparked mixed reactions among residents, with some accusing them of betraying the trust of farmers who rely on government support for agricultural development.
Others, however, claim the case may be politically motivated.
Authorities have reassured the public that the case will be handled fairly, with full transparency.
The Office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kaberamido has urged local leaders to refrain from misusing government resources meant to benefit the community.
