KAMPALA, UGANDA: The government has escalated its crackdown on extortion within the Parish Development Model (PDM), with multiple arrests, prosecutions, and convictions recorded across several districts following complaints from wananchi.
State House authorities confirmed Tuesday that enforcement actions have been triggered by public complaints, including cases raised by residents in Kasese and Entebbe, exposing widespread abuse of the government poverty alleviation programme.
According to the statement, four suspects, Teopista Biira, Christine Biira, Paul Wameyo, and John Mugisha, were arrested and have since been charged and arraigned before court in Kasese over alleged extortion linked to PDM funds.
In Kiryandongo District, six individuals, Esther Akello, Margaret Abalo, Patrick Bugumirwa, Joel Aluku, Eunice Amusolo, and Jacob Mukwana, have already been convicted, marking one of the most significant enforcement outcomes since the crackdown began.
Meanwhile, in Entebbe, Joseph Kalega and Henry Kibowa are facing 15 counts, with court proceedings ongoing.
Investigations led by SSP Byaruhanga Mworozi are ongoing, with authorities reiterating that access to PDM funds is entirely free and should not be subjected to any form of facilitation fees or coercion.
“The government remains committed to ensuring all offenders are brought to justice,” the statement emphasized, signalling a zero-tolerance approach to corruption within the programme.
The Parish Development Model, a flagship government initiative aimed at lifting households out of poverty, has increasingly come under scrutiny over reports of exploitation at the grassroots level.
Officials say the recent arrests and convictions are part of broader efforts to restore public confidence and ensure that intended beneficiaries access funds without interference.
Authorities have called on wananchi to remain vigilant and report any cases of extortion or misconduct, warning that those found exploiting the programme will face the full force of the law.
The latest developments highlight growing pressure on local leaders and SACCO officials to uphold transparency and accountability as the government moves to safeguard the integrity of the PDM programme.
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