By Ivan Mugisha
The Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has ordered the interdiction of at least 13 employees of Kazo District Local Government, including the District Education Officer, over allegations of corruption, abuse of office and extortion.
The directive was issued during Barugahara’s visit to the district under the nationwide Expose the Corrupt campaign, aimed at promoting accountability, fighting corruption and improving service delivery in local governments.
During the engagement with district leaders and technical staff, Barugahara raised concerns over alleged financial irregularities in the education department, particularly suspected ghost learners in government-aided schools, questioning how public funds could be released for learners who allegedly do not exist.
The District Education Officer, Lamech Mwiine, was arrested during the minister’s visit, while the Inspector of Schools, Macklin Namanya, was reportedly at large.
Barugahara also raised concerns over alleged extortion in the Human Resource Department, where job applicants were reportedly being asked to pay money in exchange for employment opportunities.
