The owner of the school bus involved in the tragic accident that claimed the lives of 24 pupils from King David Junior School has been arrested and remanded to prison as investigations into the heartbreaking incident continue.
Muhangi Shadaya, the Director of Liberty Motors Uganda Limited, appeared before Kapchorwa Chief Magistrate’s Court where he was charged over the deadly crash that shocked the country.
Police accused Shadaya of allowing a vehicle to operate under conditions that allegedly violated road safety requirements, leading to the tragic loss of young lives.
According to police, the driver who was operating the bus at the time of the accident was allegedly using another person’s driving permit instead of his own valid licence.
The authorities said the driver was reportedly using his brother’s licence, raising serious questions about how the vehicle was allowed to transport school children under such circumstances.
Shadaya was charged under the Traffic and Road Safety Act, Cap. 347, with three offences related to allowing unlawful operation of a passenger vehicle.
The charges include allegedly permitting a person without a valid driving permit to operate the bus, allowing the use of a passenger vehicle without proper licensing requirements and permitting the use of a mechanically defective motor vehicle on the road.
When he appeared before Chief Magistrate Martin Wakayembe, Shadaya denied all the allegations brought against him.
The court later remanded him until August 13, 2026, as investigations and legal proceedings continue.
The arrest has attracted public attention, with many Ugandans demanding accountability for the deaths of the 24 learners who lost their lives in the accident.
Police spokesperson for Sipi Region, SP Fredmark Chesang, confirmed that investigations were ongoing and that more details would emerge as the case progresses.
Kapchorwa Resident District Commissioner Stanley Bayole praised the police for following up on the matter and ensuring that those responsible face legal action.
Bayole revealed that some traffic officers who were allegedly on duty along the route had also been arrested over claims of negligence.
He said the case file had already been reviewed and approved by the Director of Public Prosecutions, paving the way for prosecution.
The RDC also appreciated residents of the Sebei region for the support they provided to victims and families affected by the tragedy.
He urged drivers operating in mountainous areas to exercise extra caution, saying roads in the region require experienced drivers and strict observance of traffic laws.
The accident involving the King David Junior School bus remains one of the deadliest school transport tragedies Uganda has experienced in recent years.
The deaths of the learners left families, teachers and the entire country mourning, with many calling for stronger enforcement of school transport safety regulations.
Parents and education stakeholders have renewed calls for regular inspection of school buses, proper driver verification and tougher action against individuals who put children’s lives at risk.
As the court process continues, many Ugandans are waiting to see whether those found responsible for the tragedy will face full accountability.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns about road safety and the urgent need to protect children travelling to and from school.
