Kerry Howard Mwesigwa
Three officials from Kitgum district in Uganda have been remanded after being accused of diverting over UGX 500 million, funds designated for the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in the district.
The accused officials, namely Mr. Musisi Joel (Chief Administrative Officer), Mr. Omony Stephen Lakwonyero (Principal Assistant Secretary), and Ms. Aryemo Agnes (Sector Accountant/Production Officer), stand accused of misappropriating significant funds earmarked for the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in Kitgum district. According to the allegations, the diverted funds were utilized for activities unrelated to the intended purpose.
At the Anti-Corruption Court, Chief Magistrate Joan Aciro presided over the plea hearing session for the three accused officials. They pleaded not guilty to charges of diverting public resources, as stipulated in sections 6 and 26 of the Anti-Corruption Act 2009. The court also issued criminal summons for Mr. Morish Atwom (District Senior Commercial Officer) and Mr. Denish Ocira (District Agricultural Officer) to appear and enter their pleas.
The accused officials, represented by their legal counsel, sought bail on various grounds, including the bailable nature of the charges, their right to apply for bail, and health concerns raised regarding Ms. Aryemo’s sickle cell condition. However, the prosecution, led by Ms. Safina Bireke, opposed the bail application, citing concerns about the adequacy of the sureties, the defendants’ ability to repay the misappropriated funds, and the potential flight risk if released on bail.
Taking into account the arguments presented, Chief Magistrate Joan Aciro denied bail to the three accused individuals, citing insufficient sureties. They were subsequently remanded in custody until May 24, when their case will be mentioned. Meanwhile, investigations into the matter continue, with criminal summons issued for the other officials implicated in the case.
