In a decisive crackdown on corruption within Uganda’s local governments, Martine Ssejjemba (NUP), the LCV Chairman of Mpigi district ,Kirumira Fredrick the Chairperson of District Service Commission and Sarah Nakamoga the Secretary of the Service Commission have been arrested for allegedly soliciting huge bribes in exchange for government jobs.

The arrests were confirmed on Friday, June 27, 2025, by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and come after multiple complaints surfaced from residents and local journalists during President Yoweri Museveni’s Parish Development Model (PDM) monitoring tour in Mpigi District on June 17.

Following these complaints, President Museveni reportedly directed Brigadier General Henry Isoke, head of the Anti-Corruption Unit, to investigate the allegations. A team of detectives arrived in Mpigi on June 23 to launch a formal inquiry into the alleged bribery ring operating within the district administration.

“Applicants were reportedly required to pay sums ranging from UGX 50,000  to UGX 15 million as ‘akasiimo’ or appreciation fees to be considered for employment. Those who refused to pay were removed from the shortlist or faced deliberate sabotage during the recruitment process,” the State House Anti Corruption Unit  statement read.

The suspects were transferred to Kampala city waiting to face charges as investigations continue.

This case has reawakened serious concerns about the widespread corruption in local government recruitment processes across Uganda. Bribery, nepotism, and favoritism have become disturbingly commonplace, undermining  merit based processes and depriving qualified candidates of fair employment opportunities.

The Mpigi arrests highlight the urgent need to restore integrity and public trust in government institutions, especially as Uganda implements ambitious development initiatives like the PDM, which depend on transparent and accountable local leadership.