NELSON K
Tension is mounting in Rwakabengo Ward, Southern Division in Rukungiri Municipality after committee members raised concern over delays in the disbursement of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds.
Committee members say the delay followed the suspension of a beneficiaries’ list by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) over allegations that some of the selected individuals were non-residents of the area.
According to the committee, they initially compiled a list of 130 people, later verifying 50 beneficiaries who were eligible to receive the funds. However, the list was reportedly halted by the RDC on grounds that some of the listed beneficiaries did not reside in the ward.
Speaking to Boona Radio, Levi Akantukunda, the Chairperson of the PDM Committee in Rwakabengo Ward, said the verification process was conducted by a seven-member committee together with the Parish Chief, as required by the PDM guidelines. He expressed surprise at the suspension, noting that the committee was not consulted before the decision was taken.
Akantukunda maintained that all beneficiaries on the list are genuine residents who have lived in the area for at least six months, in line with PDM regulations. He described the suspension as illegal.
Similarly, Mantegyero Benon, the NRM Chairperson for Rwakabengo Ward and also a member of the PDM committee, defended the integrity of the selection process. He said all committee members are residents of the ward and therefore well aware of who qualifies to benefit.
Mantegyero added that tensions are rising in the community, with some residents threatening to attack committee members on suspicion that they could have withheld or mismanaged the funds.
In response, Bron Kikanshemeza, the Resident District Commissioner for Rukungiri District, confirmed suspending the list after establishing that some beneficiaries were not residents of the area, which he said contravenes the program’s guidelines.
Kikanshemeza emphasized that it is his responsibility as RDC to ensure government programs benefit the rightful people and pledged not to tolerate any irregularities in the district where he represents the President.
He concluded by assuring the public that his office is investigating the matter to ensure that only legitimate residents benefit from the Parish Development Model program.
