A group of district authorities under the direction of Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka, the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Obongi, has successfully retrieved 1.3 million Ugandan shillings that were taken advantage of by extortionists targeting Parish Development Model (PDM) beneficiaries in Yakinemiji Ward of the Obongi Town Council.
The recovered money was handed over to the conned beneficiaries by RDC Hashaka, who was accompanied by the Assistant RDC, Umuhoza Habiba Furaha, and Obongi Town Councillor, Aliga Hamid.
Speaking on the matter, RDC Hashaka emphasised that at least eleven PDM officials involved in the extortion have been taken to police to record statements. He sent a strong warning that corruption would no longer be tolerated in Obongi District.
“The honeymoon for corruption in Obongi is over. My office will work closely with relevant stakeholders to ensure that public funds meant to enhance service delivery are not swindled,” he stated.
The beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the RDC’s office for its dedication to fighting corruption and ensuring justice for the affected individuals.
Since his deployment to Obongi, RDC Hashaka has made it clear to public servants, politicians, and contractors that his tenure would focus on accountability and ensuring value for money in the execution of government works.
In support of the anti-corruption stance, Obongi District LCV Chairperson Hajji Abibu Buga Khemis echoed the importance of tackling corruption, which he noted has been hindering the district's growth since it was carved out of Moyo District.
“I urge all stakeholders to step up in identifying and fighting corruption, which is retarding our district's progress,” Hajji Abibu said.
Obongi District has received UGX 5.6 billion under the PDM program in the past two financial years. The recovery of these funds sends a strong message that mismanagement of such resources will not be tolerated.
Caption: Obongi RDC Samuel Mpimbaza Hashaka displays the recovered money before handing it over to the beneficiaries. Courtesy photo.