IGG Investigates Kikuube Officials Over Ghost Beneficiaries
The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) is investigating officials in Kikuube District for alleged corruption involving ghost beneficiaries in government projects. The inquiry focuses on the Development Response to Displacement Impacts Project (DRDIP) and the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Patricia Achan, Deputy Inspector General of Government, disclosed that the officials under scrutiny are primarily technical staff responsible for implementing these projects in the district. She revealed that between 2022 and 2024, these officials are suspected of creating fictitious beneficiaries for DRDIP and PDM.
Preliminary investigations have pinpointed ghost beneficiaries in several sub-counties, including Kizirafumbi, Kyangwali, Kabwoya Lower, and Kabwoya Upper. Detectives from the IGG have been assigned to further investigate these findings.
In addition to the ghost beneficiary scheme, top district officials are also being investigated for alleged extortion related to these projects. This corruption has impeded the effective execution and progress of DRDIP and PDM, affecting service delivery to local residents.
Achan stated that those found guilty will face arrest and prosecution. She urged residents and the Resident District Commissioner to oversee government projects and report any instances of fund misappropriation.
Canon Edward Musingye, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kikuube, confirmed that some district officials had been involved in extorting money from PDM beneficiaries and job seekers. He indicated that operations are underway to arrest and prosecute those involved in these corrupt activities.
Resident District Commissioner Amlan Tumusiime praised the IGG’s intervention and expressed concern about pervasive corruption among district leaders. Tumusiime referenced a 2022 case where several officials were arrested for approving payments for an incomplete construction project valued at Sh1.8 billion.
Recently, Tumusiime’s office has conducted a large-scale operation against officials accused of extorting money from job seekers. Several arrests have been made, and those implicated are now facing legal action.
Tumusiime called for continued public support in the fight against corruption, encouraging residents to report any cases of extortion to his office.
Annet Murugi, a resident of Maya village in Kabwoya sub-county, commended the IGG’s office for addressing the corruption issues in Kikuube. She noted that corruption has severely damaged the district’s reputation.
IGP Byakagaba Warns Police Against Corruption
In related news about embezzlement, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abas Byakagaba has urged senior police officers to remain vigilant against corruption. Speaking at a graduation ceremony for 83 senior officers at the Police Senior Command and Staff College in Bwebajja, Wakiso district on August 2, 2024, Byakagaba emphasized the importance of staying clear of corrupt practices.
Byakagaba addressed the graduates, reminding them of the critical role they play in upholding integrity within the police force. “There is a problem of corruption. Ensure that you are very far away from corruption and be ready to process those who get involved in corruption,” he stated.
The ceremony, which also marked the completion of degrees in various disciplines for the officers, was presided over by Internal Affairs Minister Maj. Gen. (rtd) Kahinda Otafiire. Byakagaba’s remarks come at a significant time, as investigations into corruption within the Ministry of Finance and Parliament are intensifying. Recent arrests of five ruling party MPs have highlighted the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability in government.
Byakagaba expressed confidence in the officers’ ability to contribute to a stronger, more effective police force. “With your dedication and teamwork, you will progress together by building a stronger force, more resilient and more effective, and ultimately ready and able to deliver to the people of Uganda,” he said.
He encouraged the officers to strive for excellence and make a positive impact in their roles. “I have great confidence in your abilities, go forth, fly [because] the sky is no longer the limit, and make a difference in policing our beautiful country as we aspire to achieve Vision 2040 and the coming NDPIV [National Development Plan],” Byakagaba added.
The NDPIV is the fourth phase of Uganda’s National Development Plans, designed to implement the Vision 2040 strategy. It aims to promote sustainable industrialization, inclusive growth, employment, and wealth creation. The plan also aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development adopted by the United Nations.
