The investigation into alleged corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has hit a snag as crucial probe files have gone missing. Last May, the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU) initiated inquiries into the ministry prompted by whistleblowers’ tips.
Probe files related to allegations of corruption, nepotism, and mismanagement within the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance have reportedly disappeared, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
During the investigation, SHACU uncovered various irregularities within the ministry, including the misuse of fuel cards, misappropriation of funds designated for the Parish Development Model (PDM), and instances of nepotism. The focus of the investigation was Aminah Zawedde, the ministry’s permanent secretary. However, some ministry sources contend that this was a targeted effort to defame her.
Zawedde and several high ranking ministry officials were summoned and interrogated by SHACU multiple times during the investigation, with some facing arrest. Zawedde alone appeared for questioning at least six times. Some sources within the ministry have claimed that the investigation was a targeted effort to tarnish her reputation.
In September 2023, SHACU concluded its investigation and forwarded the file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for review and guidance on potential charges. However, the current status of the investigation remains unclear, with suspicions arising that the files might be deliberately withheld to impede the case.
When approached for comment, a SHACU spokesperson affirmed the completion of the investigation and the transfer of files to the ODPP. Yet, the ODPP spokesperson contradicted this, stating that the files were returned to SHACU for further investigation.
The whereabouts of the files remain unknown, leading whistleblowers to speculate about collusion among various entities to obstruct justice. The SHACU report allegedly recommended reforms within the ICT ministry, but no action has been taken, reinforcing suspicions of internal sabotage.
The investigation revealed significant mismanagement of non-taxable revenue (NTR) by the ministry, diverted towards unauthorized purposes. Allegations emerged concerning Alex Mujuni, a staff member in the transport section, who was reportedly found with 27 fuel cards in June 2023. It is claimed that Mujuni, who initially served as a personal assistant to ICT Minister Chris Baryomunsi, wielded considerable influence within the ministry until SHACU intervened.
Another focus of the investigation was the misuse of funds allocated for the Parish Development Model (PDM) project within the ministry. Allegations suggest that inflated procurement and manipulation of project designs facilitated embezzlement, with loyalists and relatives of Zawedde purportedly involved.
Additionally, whistleblowers accused Zawedde of diverting ministry funds to a local TV station for favorable media coverage, bypassing government media entities. Such actions are deemed irregular and contrary to regulations.
Concerns also extend to the treatment of Uganda Telecom Limited pensioners, who face difficulties accessing their funds. They allege indifference from Zawedde towards their plight, highlighting a broader discontent within the ministry.
