Summary:
- RDC Mwesigye revealed that he had received multiple reports of SACCO leaders extorting funds from beneficiaries, often under the guise of covering stationery and other SACCO-related expenses.
KANUNGU: The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kanungu, Ambrose Mwesigye has issued a stern warning to Sub-County Chiefs, Community Development Officers (CDOs), and Parish Development Model (PDM) Chairpersons against extorting funds from PDM beneficiaries.
This warning was delivered during a meeting held at the Kanungu District offices on August 28, 2024, which included District Chiefs, CDOs, and agricultural extension workers. The meeting aimed to ensure the smooth implementation of the PDM program in the district.
Mwesigye revealed that he had received multiple reports of SACCO leaders extorting funds from beneficiaries, often under the guise of covering stationery and other SACCO-related expenses.
He emphasized that all SACCO duties and expenses are funded by the government and cautioned Chiefs and CDOs to remain vigilant against these practices, as they undermine the project’s goals.
He cited a specific incident in Kihanda, where a SACCO Chairperson was arrested after being reported by a PDM beneficiary for soliciting funds. The extorted money was eventually refunded by the police.
Kanungu’s Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Awuye Abdallah, commended the efforts of Commercial Officers, CDOs, Parish Chiefs, and PDM Chairpersons but stressed the importance of strict adherence to guidelines and zero tolerance for corruption.
He warned that any leader found guilty of extortion would face legal consequences.
Awuye also noted that some groups have replaced their Chairpersons due to misappropriation of funds, and some secretaries and Chairpersons have resigned without explanation.
He warned that civil servants extorting funds under the pretense of providing PDM services would be interdicted.
Community Development Officers highlighted challenges, including unrealistic expectations from the public.
Tugume Moses, a CDO, pointed out that many people mistakenly believe that all Parish members should benefit from the 100 million UGX disbursed, even though the funds cannot cover the entire Parish at once.
Muhanguzi Owomuhangi Celebs, the District Commercial Officer, reported that the second tranche of funds had not yet been disbursed due to delays caused by the transfer of many Parish Chiefs, who are still being enrolled in the system. He reaffirmed ongoing efforts to address issues of extortion by leaders.
Ngabirano Richard, the Chairperson of Rwenkyende SACCO in Kihanda Sub-County, who was found guilty of extortion, warned other Chairpersons against such practices.
He explained that they had been soliciting money for lunch and transport expenses, as they were volunteers, but he alone faced the consequences.
Tusiime Nusurah, along with five other complainants urged other PDM beneficiaries experiencing similar issues to report to the relevant offices.
Nusurah stressed that vulnerable individuals should not remain silent when exploited by leaders.
