Tensions have erupted in Kagando village, Rukindo ward, Mbarara City South, after millions of shillings went missing from the Kagando Bataka Tweyambe Association, a community-based organisation.
Furious members have turned against their treasurer, Muhangi Julius, and secretary, Ayabambirwe Alex, accusing them of embezzlement and deliberately hiding financial records to evade an audit.
“We have reported to the RCC Mbarara City South and police, but they have not helped us. I swear if they continue being hesitant, something else will bring them here, and they should never blame anyone,” warned Kenneth Mwesigwa, the acting chairman of the association.
Formed seven years ago, the association’s members have been making monthly contributions to build financial capacity and eventually establish a savings and credit cooperative (Sacco).
However, in July last year, when members demanded financial accountability, the treasurer refused to produce the books, raising serious concerns.
“We are 73 members, and we chose Muhangi as our treasurer. In July, we resolved to start a Sacco, but when we asked him to give us accountability so we could transition, he kept dodging us,” said Mbyemire Serezio, the association’s publicity secretary.
“Those books belong to us. The money belongs to us. What is he hiding? We had pooled over Shs 39 million, but our bank account shows only Shs 18 million. Where did the rest go?” Mbyemire demanded.
Through their contributions, members managed to purchase tents, chairs, and a generator, meant to generate income for the group.
However, they claim they have never received any money from the use of these assets. Worse still, they are often denied access to them, even for association meetings and social functions.
To their dismay, the bank account holding the remaining funds has also been caveated by the accused, who are signatories.
“We passed a vote of no confidence in Muhangi because he stole our money,” declared Jovlet Baguma during a protest.
Kyakuheire Maria Gorret, another group member, said they had been giving Muhangi money in exchange for receipts, only to later discover that the money was never banked.
“I am a casual labourer. I struggle daily to contribute to our association, and now we find out the money never made it to the bank? Muhangi must return our money,” she demanded.
The matter has been under the attention of Mbarara City RCC Akim Twine’Amatsiko and the police since July last year, but no resolution has been reached, as Muhangi continues to defy official directives.
“We have held several engagements with the parties involved and instructed Muhangi to produce the financial books and provide accountability, but he has refused to heed our directives,” Akim told The Nile Post.
“If he continues to defy us, we will enforce the law, and it will catch up with him because all signs point to financial mismanagement,” he added.
When contacted by the Nile Post, Muhangi Julius dismissed the allegations and insisted the executive would issue a statement after an internal meeting—without specifying when.
“You can write whatever you want. But my position is that we are yet to hold a meeting, and if time allows, we shall give you our stand. But for now, no,” he said.
The furious members, however, remain firm in their demand: Muhangi must present their financial records and account for the missing money within four days.