The State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU), in conjunction with the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP), has arraigned Abbey Kawooya, the Chairperson of Namagunga-Namataba Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCO, before the Mukono Chief Magistrate’s Court, on count of obtaining money by false pretense.
According to a statement released by SHACU on July 22, 2024, the accused allegedly obtained money by false pretense from hundreds of PDM beneficiaries in Namagunga, Namataba ward SACCO, between the months of November 2023 and July 2024, in Namataba town council, Mukono district.
“The accused falsely claimed that the money was needed by the board to process PDM loans for them and even punished those that did not comply by deleting them from the list of beneficiaries,” the statement read in part.
The statement stated that the accused has been remanded to Luzira prison until August 5, 2024.
This is not an isolated incident; on July 22, 2024, SHACU arraigned Charles Basoga, the Chairperson of Busoga Growers Cooperative Union, before the Anti-Corruption Court on charges of causing financial loss and conspiracy to defraud the government over Ugx 4 billion, and he has been remanded until August 1, 2024.
On July 19, 2024, SHACU brought Geraldine Ssali Busuulwa, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives, before the Anti-Corruption Court on charges of abuse of office, causing financial loss, and conspiracy to defraud. She was remanded and committed to the High Court.
Referring to the law, if convicted under Section 11(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act, the accused individuals could face a prison sentence of up to seven years and a fine not exceeding Ugx 5.3 million. Additionally, those found guilty under Section 190(1) of fraudulent procurement may be sentenced to imprisonment for a maximum of three years.
The efforts of SHACU, CID, and ODPP reflect the government’s determination to combat corruption at all levels. By holding accountable those who misuse their positions for personal gain, these actions aim to restore transparency, accountability, and good governance.
