PDM Funds Diverted for Personal Gains: Nationwide Scrutiny Begins
In a shocking revelation, the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has started a nationwide investigation into the alleged mishandling of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds. The PDM program, aimed at lifting millions of Ugandans out of poverty, seems to be drowning in a sea of corruption and mismanagement.
Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria, the Deputy IGG, has pointed out several alarming issues plaguing the PDM program. These include unexplained deductions of beneficiary funds by commercial banks, the diversion of funds to other programmes by the beneficiaries, and the extortion conducted by Parish Chiefs and Community Development Officers (CDO). It appears that these practices may jeopardize the programme’s success.
Dr. Okiria sternly warns that she has received complaints from various regions regarding the extortion of funds, some beneficiaries not receiving their allocated funds despite their names being on the list, and irregular bank deductions from beneficiary accounts. Some beneficiaries have even dubbed these funds as their “personal drinking money.” Dr. Okiria reminds them that full accountability for these funds will be demanded.
To address these glaring issues, Dr. Okiria recommends increased training for beneficiaries and a strengthening of government supervision and monitoring. It is evident that the current system is failing, and the IGG is determined to bring these discrepancies to light.
In Iganga, where the investigation has commenced, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Sadala Wandera, revealed that the district received a substantial amount of money under the PDM program. While 95 percent of the funds were distributed to beneficiaries, the challenges of monitoring 5,700 beneficiaries have become apparent. Wandera acknowledges that despite some positive outcomes, the program faces challenges such as monitoring issues, extortion, fund diversions by Sacco leaders and Parish Chiefs, and insufficient training for beneficiaries.
The nationwide probe into PDM funds paints a disheartening picture of a programme meant to alleviate poverty. It’s a stark reminder of how corruption and mismanagement can undermine even the most well-intentioned initiatives in Uganda.
