The election of a new Parish Development Model (PDM) committee in Namagabi Parish, Kayunga Town Council in Kayunga District, has been postponed to June 23, 2026, after the exercise failed to attract the required quorum.
Kayunga Town Council Commercial Officer Nelly Mirembe halted the process and directed Local Council leaders to intensify mobilisation to ensure wider community participation in the rescheduled exercise.
The meeting was overshadowed by complaints from residents who accused some local leaders and former committee members of allegedly campaigning for preferred candidates ahead of the vote. Residents alleged that a group led by former PDM Chairperson Ali Mutyaba had been moving around the parish soliciting support for certain candidates, raising concerns about the fairness and independence of the process.
Mutyaba, who previously chaired the parish PDM committee, is currently facing court proceedings over allegations of extorting money from beneficiaries seeking access to PDM funds. He was arrested last year following complaints from residents, and the case is still ongoing.
Some residents expressed opposition to what they described as attempts to influence the election outcome.
“We cannot entrust the programme to people whose names have repeatedly appeared in corruption complaints. The committee should be elected freely without intimidation or interference,” one resident said.
Another added: “PDM funds belong to beneficiaries, not brokers. We want leaders who will protect the programme and ensure all deserving households benefit.”
Addressing the gathering, Nelly Mirembe emphasized the need for a transparent and participatory electoral process, directing that all villages be fully mobilised to ensure broad participation in the fresh election.
“The election could not proceed without adequate participation from all villages. It has therefore been postponed to June 23, 2026. I direct all Local Council leaders to mobilise residents so they fully participate in choosing their representatives,” she said.
Mirembe also warned against corruption and extortion in the implementation of the government programme.
“No beneficiary should pay any money to access PDM funds. Anyone found extorting money from the public will be dealt with according to the law. The programme is meant to fight poverty, not enrich a few individuals,” she said.
Residents further called for strict vetting of candidates contesting for positions on the new committee, saying integrity should be prioritised to restore public trust in the programme.
The fresh election is expected to attract higher participation as authorities step up mobilisation efforts. Community members hope the new committee will improve transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in the implementation of the Parish Development Model, one of government’s key poverty alleviation initiatives.