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), have arraigned two accused before the Bududa Chief Magistrates Court on charges of mishandling Parish Development Model funds in Bududa district.
According to a statement released by SHACU on Thursday 17, 2024, Kasim Wakoko, one of the accused and a Parish Chief of Bunandutu, was charged with obtaining money by false pretense after he defrauded millions of shillings from several beneficiaries of the Bunandutu PDM SACCO, claiming the money was meant to process their funds, which was not the case.
“Francis Nakhaima, with others still at large, being employees of public service, were expected to file returns but failed and were charged with making false claims by officials,“ the statement read in part.
The statement further highlighted that the accused were again supposed to give correct statements regarding Bumakita PDM SACCO funds but made false entries and returns by registering persons who were not beneficiaries of the same parish.
The statement stated that the accused were further remanded to Luzira until November 5, 2024.
On the same development, on October 15, 2024, SHACU arraigned Kampala City Land Board Chairperson and City Lawyer David Balondemu before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court on charges of forgery and conspiracy to commit a felony, and he was remanded to Luzira until October 21, 2024.
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This is not an isolated incident; on October 4, 2024, SHACU arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Luwero district, George William Kalule, a businessman, on several charges of obtaining money by false pretense and remanded him until October 23, 2024.
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.
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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.
