Mbale District Health Officer Dr. Wangisi Jonathan has been interdicted as the government moves to investigate allegations of corruption, abuse of office, and mismanagement of public resources in the district.
The interdiction follows a directive from the Ministry of Local Government dated July 10, 2026, instructing the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Mbale District Local Government to suspend Dr. Wangisi and other senior district officials to allow investigations by relevant government agencies.
According to the letter signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya, several concerns were raised during a meeting convened by the Minister of Local Government in Mbale District. The issues included gross negligence of duty, abuse of office, poor management of public resources, and possible financial impropriety, which officials said had affected service delivery in the district.
Dr. Wangisi, who previously served as the District Health Officer for Mbale, was reportedly accused of involvement in irregularities within the health sector, including allegations of allowing ghost health workers into the government payroll system and other financial-related concerns. The allegations have not yet been proven, and investigations will determine the facts surrounding the claims.
The interdiction is intended to give investigators room to conduct their work without interference. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit and other relevant government agencies are expected to review the files and gather more information before deciding on the next steps.
Other officials affected by the directive include the Principal Education Officer, District Inspector of Schools, and Principal Human Resource Officer of Mbale District. They were also suspended to pave the way for investigations into the allegations raised against them.
The Ministry of Local Government said the action was taken in accordance with the Public Service Standing Orders, 2021, which provide for the interdiction of public officers facing serious allegations while investigations are ongoing.
The case adds to the growing government efforts to address corruption and improve accountability in public institutions. Residents of Mbale District are now waiting to see the outcome of the investigations and whether those accused will be cleared or face further disciplinary and legal action.
