By Emmanuel Eumu
In a rallying cry against the rampant corruption plaguing Kaberamaido, Dr. Adrian Beinebyabo, a senior lecturer at Uganda Management Institute, has urged journalists to step up as frontline soldiers in the battle against this societal scourge.
Addressing a gathering at the office of the Resident District Commissioner in Kaberamaido, Dr. Beinebyabo emphasized the pivotal role of journalists as the fourth estate in government. He underscored the need for concerted efforts to combat corruption, citing President Museveni’s call for the introduction of new courses on corruption at UMI.
The fight against corruption, Dr. Beinebyabo stressed, requires the collaboration of various stakeholders, including anti-corruption agencies, development partners, police, RDC’s office, cultural leaders, civil society organizations, and the anti-corruption unit.
Linos Lotem, the Resident District Commissioner, echoed Dr. Beinebyabo’s sentiments, highlighting the pervasive nature of corruption, which starts from homes. He lamented the challenges faced by the NRM government in tackling corruption, citing instances where corrupt individuals evade justice, undermining the efforts to curb the vice.
Henry Damba, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kaberamaido District, acknowledged the efforts of the local government but acknowledged the uphill battle against corruption, which often results in losses and frustrations, particularly with cases disappearing in police custody.
Journalists, too, face significant challenges in exposing corruption. Emmanuel Eumu, a journalist with Patriots website, recounted facing threats and intimidation while reporting on corruption cases, including an incident involving a sub-county chairperson accused of stealing construction materials.
As corruption continues to erode the fabric of society, the call to action for journalists to wield their pens as weapons against this pervasive menace grows louder in Kaberamaido. It’s a battle that requires unwavering determination, collective action, and relentless pursuit of truth and justice.