MUGABE R
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Rukungiri, Mr. Bruno Kikanshemeza, has reaffirmed his commitment to arresting Parish Chiefs who defraud beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM) funds, despite mounting criticism.
The statement was made today during the disbursement of recovered PDM funds totaling UGX 10 million, recovered from the former Murama Parish Chief, Justus Twesigomwe, and the former Murama Parish Development Model SACCO Chairperson, Frank Tweheyo. The handover took place at Nangala Church of Uganda in Murama Parish, Nyakishenyi Sub County.
On 4th September 2025, Mr. Kikanshemeza arrested the pair during a meeting with PDM beneficiaries and expectants, ordering the defrauded beneficiaries to record statements with the police. The RDC also directed that the jobs of both the Parish Chief and SACCO Chairperson be canceled.
Speaking at the event, RDC Kikanshemeza emphasized his dedication to protecting government initiatives, pledging to continue arresting civil servants who engage in fraud or manipulate ghost beneficiaries, despite growing public criticism.
Grace Tweheyo, the District Commercial Officer for Rukungiri, urged beneficiaries to remain vigilant and prepared to witness progress, assuring strict monitoring of funds and the arrest of any misusers.
Twinomujuni, Chairperson LC3 Nyakishenyi Sub County, praised the RDC’s actions, noting that the arrests have helped to shape responsible leadership among Parish Chiefs. He encouraged continued efforts to address ghost beneficiaries.
The beneficiaries of the recovered funds, including Moses Byabashaija, Stidia Orishaba, and Jackson Twesigomwe, expressed gratitude to the RDC for ensuring justice and promised to use the funds responsibly.
Meanwhile, Bernard Karyeija, a member of the Murama PDM SACCO supervisory committee, was arrested during the disbursement activity for allegedly soliciting UGX 250,000 from an applicant. He was taken to Nyakishenyi Police Post for further action.
RDC Kikanshemeza’s firm stance underscores his commitment to ensuring transparency, accountability, and proper use of government programs in Rukungiri District.
