Murama Parish Chief, Sacco Chair Arrested for Charging Illegal Fees in Rukungiri

Rukungiri: A section of residents in Murama parish, Nyakishenyi sub-county, Rukungiri district have expressed relief following the arrest of their Parish Chief, Justus Twesigomwe, and the Murama PDM Sacco chairperson, Frank Tweheyo, over alleged financial misconduct in the government’s Parish Development Model (PDM) program.

The arrests, which happened on September 4, during a community meeting at Nangala Church of Uganda, were ordered by the Rukungiri District Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Bron Kikanshemeza, who was in attendance alongside other PDM officials.

Residents accused the two of illegally charging between 30,000 and 45,000 shillings from beneficiaries as a prerequisite to access PDM funds. Those who failed to pay were reportedly denied access altogether.

Cue in…Residents complaining….RR

In their defense, the suspects admitted to collecting money but argued that it was meant to cover transport, meals, and facilitation during PDM activities.

Cue in…Criminals RR talking…RR

Unmoved by their explanation, RDC Kikanshemeza ordered their immediate arrest and directed that new Sacco leadership be appointed within one week to restore public trust.

He further instructed Nyakishenyi Police Station not to release the suspects until they are held accountable for all funds collected from residents.

Kikanshemeza vowed to keep a close watch on government programs, stressing that he will not tolerate corruption or exploitation in the implementation of PDM.

Cue in…Kikanshemeza ordering…RR