By Richard Onapatum
BUDUDA, UGANDA – The National Coordinator of Emyooga and Parish Development Model (PDM) Consultant, Ms. Ritah Namuwenge, has ordered an immediate investigation into allegations of extortion by some parish chiefs in Bududa district. The chiefs are accused of soliciting money from PDM Sacco members, ranging from Shs30,000 to Shs100,000, for kickbacks.
Ms. Namuwenge made the announcement during a district stakeholders’ meeting and PDM beneficiaries gathering at the district headquarters. The meeting was convened by officials from the PDM and Emyooga programs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and Planning, to assess the progress and implementation of the programs.
“The parish chiefs and Parish Development Committees (PDCs) are not adhering to the PDM guidelines. Why extort money from these vulnerable people? I have instructed the RDC to obtain statements from the beneficiaries who were extorted,” Ms. Namuwenge said.
She also directed PDM Sacco leaders to stop bureaucracy and release funds to beneficiaries. The meeting raised concerns about extortion, with some parish chiefs demanding up to Shs100,000 for kickbacks.
Residents backed Ms. Namuwenge’s call to arrest corrupt parish chiefs and PDCs. Mr. Peter Womaniala, a PDM beneficiary, alleged that parish chiefs and Sacco leaders have become a problem. “If you complain, they start intimidating us, demanding money ranging from Shs10,000 to Shs100,000. They even collect our phones until we give up with the program.”
The RDC, Mr. Elijah Madoi, warned parish chiefs to stop extorting money from beneficiaries. “Report such cases to my office. If I catch anyone extorting money, they will be arrested and face the law. Refunding the money will not save you from punishment.”
Rahim Kisuyi, an economist from the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (MOFPED), urged beneficiaries to invest their money wisely. “Invest in productive activities, and your money will multiply. We will ensure you become rich.”