The Regional District Commissioner (RDC) in Obongi district, Mr. Samuel Mpimbasa Hasaka is calling on the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) to dismiss Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Leru Andrew and Desk Officer Tako Geoffrey over allegations of embezzlement related to the Development Response to Displacement Impact Project (DRDIP).
As the year 2023 concludes, corruption remains a pressing issue for Obongi district’s local government. Accusations of misappropriation of government funds persist, causing concern among Wanahinci residents. It is suggested that corrupt officials might be collaborating to shield themselves from scrutiny.
In an interview on December 30, 2023, RDC Samuel Mpimbasa Hasaka shared insights into the challenges of combating corruption in Obongi district. The focal point of the discussion was the reluctance of CAO Leru Andrew to implement IGG directives concerning embezzlement allegations against DRDIP Desk Officer Tako Geoffrey and three other officials.
The allegations revolve around the embezzlement of over 7 million UGX shillings under the DRDIP. The IGG had directed the recovery of the funds and the dismissal of the implicated individuals. However, CAO Leru Andrew reportedly refused to act on these directives, claiming an untouchable status.
The IGG’s investigation implicated Tako Geoffrey and three community facilitators in the misappropriation of funds for the ODRAJI Youth goat rearing trading sub-project. The IGG’s report outlined violations of DRDIP community-based procurement guidelines.
Despite the IGG’s directives issued on December 6, 2022, CAO Leru Andrew allegedly failed to implement the recommendations by January 20, 2023. Tako Geoffrey, accused of being a key figure in several DRDIP scandals, reportedly continues to serve as the Obongi district desk officer.
Dr. Patricia Acan, the Acting IGG, expressed concern over the delay in implementation during a telephone interview on December 26, 2023. She granted a grace period until the first week of January 2024 for CAO Leru Andrew to update on the status of IGG’s directives.
RDC Hasaka commended Dr. Patricia Acan for her efforts in combating corruption and emphasized the need for accountability in Obongi district. The situation involves various corruption cases, including issues related to grounded tractors.
