Bugiri PDM mismanagement : Town clerk and SACCO leaders remanded on fraud charges
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit in collaboration with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions have arrested and charged several officials from Bugiri district over fraud and conspiracy.
The accused were arraigned before the Chief Magistrate Esther Nyadoi on charges of obtaining money by false pretences and conspiracy to defraud beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM).
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The accused include:
1. Mugunda Azedy – Assistant Town Clerk, Busowa Town Council and Community Development Officer
2. Maka Christopher – Parish Chief, Bupala and Busowa Parishes
3. Kawudhu Mathias – Chairperson, Nawandhuki Busowa SACCO
4. Balidawa Stephen – Chairperson, Nakidudula Busowa SACCO
5. Makiika Stephen – Chairperson, Nakawa Busowa SACCO
6. Waiswa Hassan – Businessman
These individuals, along with others still at large, are accused of defrauding millions of shillings from the beneficiaries of PDM SACCOs between January and June 2024.
They allegedly collected money from unsuspecting beneficiaries under the guise of various PDM-related activities such as renting office spaces, purchasing furniture, printing vouchers, preparing files, conducting appraisals, and taking photographs.
The fraudulent collection of these fees is in direct violation of PDM guidelines, which stipulate that no charges should be imposed on beneficiaries for such services.
The accused have been remanded to Bugiri government Prison until September 23, 2024, as investigations continue. Authorities are still searching for additional suspects believed to be involved in the scheme.
The incident has raised concerns about the management of PDM funds in the region, as beneficiaries call for justice and a return of their stolen funds.
The PDM initiative was designed to empower local communities by providing financial support to improve their livelihoods. However, the actions of these officials have not only undermined the program but have also affected the trust beneficiaries placed in the system.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has vowed to continue pursuing those involved in the fraud to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of government funds meant for development projects.
This development highlights the ongoing challenges in tackling corruption at the grassroots level, where vital resources are often mismanaged, leaving beneficiaries without the support they desperately need.
