In a shocking turn of events, Mr. Dismus Tumushangye, the Ntungamo District engineer responsible for the water department, has been apprehended by the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) on charges of diverting government resources meant for public use. The arrest comes after the discovery that a community water tank, originally designated for construction at a local church, was instead built at a private residence. This incident is part of a larger investigation into suspected mismanagement of over 20 projects within the district.
Detailed Account of the Incident:
The allegations against Mr. Tumushangye revolve around the diversion of a community water tank project planned for construction at a church in Rwebirerere-Buhara Parish, Ngoma Sub County. Instead of being built at the intended location, the tank was illicitly erected at the residence of Robert Buhungu, depriving the local community of access to essential water resources. Concerned residents expressed their grievances during the visit of Deputy Inspector General of Government, Ms. Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe, which ultimately led to the engineer’s arrest.
During the subsequent interrogation, Mr. Tumushangye admitted to the wrongdoing and expressed remorse. He offered to finance the construction of a new tank to rectify the situation. Recognizing the pervasive issue of negligence within Ntungamo District’s local government, Ms. Muhairwe pledged to conduct a thorough investigation into all corruption scandals and provide necessary recommendations to prevent further misuse of government funds. Recent scrutiny of the district has revealed nonexistent health units on the wage bill system and substantial funds being returned to the central treasury.
This is not the first instance of misconduct involving Mr. Tumushangye. In May 2014, he faced charges for pilfering borehole materials from district-sponsored installations. He was jointly charged with his associate, Mr. Zaveriyo Rugumayo, for dismantling two boreholes and stealing spare parts worth Shs470,000. Questions have also been raised about Mr. Tumushangye’s qualifications, as he holds craft one and craft two certificates that do not meet the higher qualifications mandated by the public service standing orders for a water officer.
The arrest of Mr. Dismus Tumushangye, the Ntungamo District engineer responsible for the water department, highlights the alleged diversion of public resources for personal gain. The ongoing investigation by the Inspectorate of Government into the mismanagement of numerous projects within the district emphasizes the urgent need for transparency and accountability in the utilization of government funds. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the negligence challenges facing Ntungamo District’s local government, necessitating comprehensive measures to combat corruption and strengthen governance. The legal proceedings resulting from this arrest will determine the appropriate consequences for the implicated engineer, shedding light on the importance of upholding the rule of law and preserving public resources for the betterment of the community.
