STAFF REPORTER
The Mbarara District Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and NRM Chairperson, Mr. Herbert Kamugisha, together with the ONC Coordinator for the Ankole sub-region, Mr. Joseph Barugahare, conducted a joint monitoring exercise of the Parish Development Model (PDM) program. They discovered that payments had been improperly disbursed: the full amount was paid to a deceased individual, while some living beneficiaries received nothing.
This joint monitoring exercise was organized by the ONC Coordinator for the Ankole sub-region, Mr. Barugahare, in collaboration with local leaders. It took place in Karuyenje Ward, Rwanyamahembe Town Council, Kashari South, Mbarara District, with the goal of assessing the program’s performance.
During the evaluation meeting, intelligence reports revealed that the Chairperson of the Karuyenje Ward PDM Sacco had allegedly conspired with a Town Agent to embezzle PDM funds. They reportedly accessed the National Identification (NID) of a deceased person to withdraw money, resulting in a financial loss for the government.
The public expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts of the Office of the National Chairperson (ONC) and the Mbarara District Commercial Officer in ensuring proper oversight and disbursement of PDM funds.
Mr. Barugahare urged public servants and local leaders to cooperate and report any suspected cases of fraud or individuals who are misappropriating government funds meant to assist the poor.
The NRM Chairperson and PAC Chairperson for Mbarara District also called on public servants involved in the PDM program to attend a crucial meeting scheduled for Saturday, November 9, 2024. He emphasized the importance of their presence to explain how the PDM funds were used and stressed that the outcome of this meeting should contribute to strengthening the PDM Sacco.
