The Deputy Mayor of Sheema Municipality, Lukia Nakalisa has reportedly been arrested over allegations of selling a government job for Shs3 million, in a dramatic development that unfolded during an anti-corruption campaign led by Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara.
The arrest followed allegations that the Deputy Mayor demanded money from a woman who had applied for employment at Sheema Municipality, reportedly promising to secure her a government position in exchange for Shs3 million.
According to information presented during the campaign, the woman’s husband became suspicious after his wife reportedly informed him about the financial demand. He subsequently reported the matter to Minister Balaam Barugahara, prompting the issue to be raised during the minister’s anti-corruption activities in Sheema District.
The incident reportedly came to light during the Expose Corruption campaign rally, where residents were encouraged to expose public officials allegedly involved in demanding bribes, abusing their offices and exploiting desperate job seekers.
The Deputy Mayor was reportedly confronted over the allegations and, according to accounts from the campaign, admitted that she had sold a government job. She was subsequently arrested as authorities moved to address the accusations.
The alleged transaction has once again exposed the troubling practice of individuals reportedly demanding money from unemployed Ugandans in exchange for government employment opportunities.
For many job seekers, securing employment in public institutions remains a difficult struggle, with some reportedly falling victim to individuals who exploit their desperation by promising positions in exchange for money.
The alleged Shs3 million demand has therefore raised fresh questions about recruitment transparency, accountability and the conduct of political leaders entrusted with serving local communities.
Minister Balaam’s campaign has taken an aggressive approach towards encouraging citizens to report corruption instead of remaining silent when confronted with wrongdoing. The incident also sends a strong warning to public officials who may be tempted to turn government employment opportunities into personal businesses.
However, the allegations and reported admission will need to be subjected to the appropriate legal processes, with the Deputy Mayor entitled to due process as investigations continue.
Sheema Municipal town clerk, Lilian Kobusingye was also arrested for disguising President Museven’s tax protection order on night street food vendors. Minister Barugahara also ordered for an investigation of 32 dsitrict officials for causing financial loss to the district and Municiaplity.
