Nakapiripirit district is embroiled in controversy following a disagreement between the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), George Owanyi Akwan, and the District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Esther Anyakun, who also serves as Minister of State for Labour and Industrial Relations.
The two are at odds after RDC Owanyi instructed the Moroto territorial police to investigate the alleged mismanagement of a one billion Uganda shilling grant from the central government. The funds were intended for rehabilitating district roads and other infrastructure projects.
This action followed a whistleblower’s report to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit about the poor state of the district’s roads. The whistleblower also highlighted the reported deaths of expectant mothers en route to health centers, despite the government releasing funds for community access roads.
Based on public outcry regarding two recent road projects in Loreng and Kakomongole, RDC Owanyi invited the Moroto territorial police to assess the value for money, quality of workmanship, and address community grievances, including alleged encroachment on gardens. The State House team had previously visited the sites at the RDC’s request.
As the police began summoning individuals, it is alleged that Hon. Anyakun directed the RDC, Moroto RPC SSP Ahmed Madiri, and Regional CID Officer SSP Willy Kalimbani to “go slow” on the investigation, citing potential negative consequences for elected leaders during the current election season.
In response, RDC Owanyi wrote a letter dated January 27, 2025, requesting the Minister to stop political interference and protecting allegedly corrupt technical staff within the district.
“It is double standards for my office to remand chicken thieves, absentee workers, and locals without pit latrines, while looters of public resources meant to enhance social service delivery walk scot-free,” Owanyi stated in his letter.
Meanwhile, the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, along with the Moroto regional police, have issued criminal summons for the Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Lawrence Wadada; Procurement Officer, Mr. Ngiro Joseph; and District Engineer, Mr. Oketayot Patrick, to provide statements and relevant contract documents.
This action followed a visit to the district two weeks ago by a team of investigators dispatched by Gen. Isoke, the head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit.
When contacted, Hon. Anyakun dismissed the allegations as a political witch-hunt.
