The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has launched a thorough investigation into allegations of rampant corruption among government officials in Kakumiro, Kibaale, and Kagadi districts in Greater Kibaale.
Victoria Mirembe, a supervisor for advocacy and capacity building at the Inspectorate of Government, led the investigative team and confirmed that the probe is focused on widespread corruption within the local governments, particularly involving bribery, extortion, and the sale of jobs in public institutions such as hospitals, schools, district service commissions, and police departments.
“These claims have been circulating for a long time, with reports of jobs being sold by service commissions and health workers demanding money. We are here for a fact-finding mission, and action will be taken once we gather sufficient proof,” Mirembe stated during the investigation.
Residents in Kakumiro raised several concerns during a community Baraza at the Kakumiro Town Council, highlighting issues such as neglect of duty, harassment, extortion, bribery, and the victimization of whistleblowers.
Mirembe assured that these allegations are being investigated thoroughly and promised severe punitive measures, including interdiction, demotion, reprimand, and prosecution for those found guilty.
“We are not a joking entity; we are going to bite,” she asserted, emphasizing the seriousness of the investigation.
In response to the allegations, Peter Erisu Emwos, the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, stated that many of the corruption claims lacked concrete evidence.
He urged victims to provide proof when making complaints to allow authorities to take action.
"These claims are widespread across the country, but apart from mere words, we have hardly received any concrete evidence. Let anyone come forward with proof, and we will act without fear," Erisu said.
Peter Bisoborwa, the Kakumiro Resident District Commissioner, also called on the public to report any instances of corruption, including cases where individuals are offering bribes before being asked for them.
"We know there are people who even give out money before being asked for it. That is also corruption, but please report these cases, and we will take action," he added.
Victims from Kakumiro District Service Commission, local health centers, and schools continue to raise concerns about extortion, bribery, and the sale of jobs, urging the government to intervene and address the corruption issues affecting public services in the region.