By Obed Kithende
Maate Magwara, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Bukonzo County, has ordered PDM SACCO leaders in Muhindi Parish, Nyakiyumbu Sub-county, Kasese District, to refund Shs1.7 million allegedly collected from beneficiaries during the application process.
The amount is part of Shs7 million reportedly extorted from residents seeking to access Parish Development Model funds. Lt. Magwara said complaints indicated that beneficiaries were asked to pay between Shs40,000 and Shs70,000 to receive Shs1 million each.
He noted that part of the money had already been refunded and is currently being held by the Sub-county Chief. During a meeting in Kighuthu village, he directed that the remaining balance be returned to beneficiaries in his presence.
Lt. Magwara condemned the practice, saying such actions undermine government efforts to fight poverty. At least 13 residents testified that they paid bribes to access the funds.
Local leaders and victims welcomed the directive, expressing hope it would deter misuse of the program. Meanwhile, Nyakiyumbu Sub-county Chairperson Peter Sunday Kakule said the situation may have arisen due to limited involvement of political leaders in the implementation and monitoring of the program.
