Amuru court bailfit summoned over missing charcoal funds

A court bailiff in Amuru District has been summoned for failing to remit approximately Shs 250 million from the sale of 8,250 bags of charcoal.

The bailiff, Mr. Quirrino Ovngui, is alleged to have mismanaged an auctioning exercise involving the charcoal, which was confiscated by the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) during an operation targeting illegal commercial charcoal trade in the Acholi sub-region.

Executive Order No. 3, implemented in May this year by President Museveni, banned the production and trade of charcoal on a commercial scale in Northern Uganda. This directive was part of efforts to protect the environment, combat deforestation, and promote sustainable environmental practices.

Amuru Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Oceng Osborn has taken decisive action by summoning the bailiff for questioning, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations and the need for transparency and accountability in public office.

In a letter issued by the RDC on December 3, 2024, it was stated that the funds from the auction were expected to be remitted to the district’s coffers.

“Each bag was sold at Shs 30,000, resulting in Shs 247,500,000. This money was supposed to be deposited into the consolidated account two weeks after the auction,” stated the RDC in his letter.

Charcoal production has been a significant source of income for many families in the region. However, unsustainable harvesting practices have led to severe environmental degradation. The presidential directive seeks to address these challenges by regulating the trade and promoting alternative energy sources.

As the investigation unfolds, questions remain about the actions that will be taken against the bailiff if the allegations are proven true.

The community is calling for strict measures to hold public officials accountable for their actions and ensure that funds generated from public resources benefit the community.

“The culprits should be taught a lesson so that others learn the consequences of misusing government offices and defying directives,” said Opiru Charles, a resident of Amuru.

This situation raises concerns about the integrity of public officials and their commitment to serving the interests of the people they represent. It also highlights the broader challenges faced by local governments in enforcing regulations and managing resources effectively.