Ibanda District Chairperson Arrested Over Unauthorised Road Works

Ibanda District Chairperson Happy Herbert Mayanja was arrested on Monday morning and later released on police bond over allegations of unlawfully tampering with the Ibanda–Kagongo road, which is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Works and Transport.

Mayanja allegedly directed the removal of damaged asphalt using a district grader in an effort to patch up deteriorating sections of the road.

Witnesses say work had already begun when police arrived on the scene, halted the repairs, and took Mayanja into custody for questioning.

Speaking shortly after his release, Mayanja defended the decision, saying he acted in response to repeated complaints from residents who rely on the road for daily transport.

“I instructed the team to remove the worn-out asphalt and fill the potholes so the road can be passable, at least temporarily, as we wait for the ministry to intervene,” he said.

He also accused political opponents of seizing the opportunity to discredit him.

“Some of my opponents are using this situation to incite hatred and undermine my efforts to serve the people,” Mayanja added.

The Ibanda–Kagongo road has long been a flashpoint in the district. In November 2024, frustrated residents staged a protest and blocked traffic to demand urgent repairs, citing safety hazards and economic disruption caused by the road’s poor condition.

While police have yet to issue an official statement on Mayanja’s arrest, the incident has ignited fresh debate over whether local leaders should be empowered to take temporary action in the face of slow central government responses.

Residents remain hopeful the controversy will push the Ministry of Works and Transport to finally prioritise the long-neglected road.