The Chairman LC V of Mukono District, Rev. Peter Bakaluba Mukasa, has vowed to fight against those who misuse government programs, especially the Parish Development Model (PDM). He emphasized that the main goal is to develop citizens, not just benefit a few leaders, and reminded them that these funds come from taxpayers.

Hon. Rev. Dr. Peter Bakaluba Mukasa issued this warning in Kasawo Sub-County and Kimenyedde Sub-County in Nakifuma County during a district-led Joint Monitoring on Government Projects. He was accompanied by officials from the RDC’s office, the CAO’s office, and other district leaders from Mukono.

During this event, leaders of the SACCOs expressed challenges they are facing, particularly the lack of electricity in most villages. They also pointed out that while leaders are spending large sums to monitor the PDM program, many have been targeted by thieves, and some people have been extorted for registration fees to join the program.

In response, Bakaluba reassured residents that their concerns would be addressed. He reaffirmed his commitment to fighting those who exploit government programs for personal gain, stressing that the main goal is national development, not personal enrichment. He reminded leaders that the funds come from taxpayers.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Mukono, Esther Baroma Nakyazze, urged Ugandans to embrace the PDM program so they can benefit from it. She also assured the public that security forces would keep a close watch to prevent any corruption or misuse of funds.

Daniel Kamara, the Principal Assistant Chief Administrative Officer representing Mukono District CAO Elizabeth Namanda, urged Parish Chiefs and PDC Chairpersons to spread positive news about the program and emphasized the importance of documenting success stories and ensuring that funds sent by the government directly to SACCO accounts are used effectively. He also warned against including ineligible people in the PDM program.

Kasawo Sub-County Chairman, Ssentongo Rajab Mukasa, reported that some local leaders are involved in illegal land grabbing. He accused certain individuals, particularly those eyeing political positions, of using land disputes to gain power while exploiting people’s properties.

Denis Ombasa, the Sub-County Chief, highlighted key challenges in the area, including the theft of livestock from PDM beneficiaries, ongoing land conflicts, and a shortage of teachers in government schools, which has negatively impacted education.

Dr. Fred Mukulu, head of the Production Department in Mukono District, explained that the goal of PDM is to ensure direct service delivery at the village level rather than keeping funds at the district level. He emphasized that local committees are responsible for managing development funds and urged Parish Chiefs to ensure that PDC members fulfill their duties without mismanaging government resources.

The meeting was attended by the District Councilor representing Kimenyedde Sub-County, Owade Moses. He acknowledged that PDM is a good initiative but pointed out that many people have been victims of extortion. He also mentioned challenges in the health sector, where pregnant women are forced to walk long distances to access maternity services.

Godfrey Katabu, the Kimenyedde Sub-County Chief, revealed that some leaders extort money from people without explaining the purpose of the funds, while others who received PDM funds either fled or diverted the money into projects different from those they initially proposed.

Kimenyedde Sub-County Chairman, Hajji Juma Lubega, thanked the government for implementing its programs and urged people not to listen to negative opinions but instead use PDM funds for their intended purpose. He acknowledged that some individuals had been victims of extortion but assured them that people now understand the program better and will continue to support government initiatives.

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