The government has intensified efforts to crack down on officers accused of extorting money from beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM) programme.

This move follows several complaints raised during the Presidential campaign engagements in Kasese, Kiryandongo, and Entebbe, prompting President Museveni to direct SSP Byaruhanga Mworozi, Special Presidential Assistant – Police Affairs, to coordinate investigations.

In Kasese District, two individuals, Teopista Biira and Christine Biira, were arrested and charged with obtaining money by false pretenses.

They were remanded by the Grade 1 Magistrate’s Court until February 10, 2026, before being granted bail.

From Kiryandongo District, six individuals Esther Akello, Margaret Abalo, Patrick Bugumirwa, Joel Aluku, Eunice Amusolo, and Jacob Mukwana were convicted following investigations into similar complaints. Additional cases are still ongoing in court.

In Entebbe, a report by Tereza Nakasoma (known as Nabakyala) from Namulanda revealed that 14 beneficiaries in her enterprise group had been extorted by the Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the Namulanda PDM SACCO.

Investigations led to the arrest of Joseph Kalega and Henry Kibowa, who were charged with 15 counts of obtaining money by false pretences. The case is scheduled for further hearing on April 20, 2026, in the Kajjansi Grade 1 Magistrate’s Court.

The government has reiterated that access to PDM support is entirely free of charge, and no official at any level is authorized to demand money in exchange for registration or participation in the programme.

Citizens are encouraged to continue reporting such incidents to the relevant authorities.

END