October 13, 2023.
HOIMA, Uganda | Three Hoima District officials have been convicted and sentenced for forgery related to the unauthorized hire of road equipment to private individuals. The culprits, Vice Chairperson Chiche Benson, Secretary for Production Magambo Jackson, and Secretary for Finance Kumakech Geoffrey, faced their verdict at the Anti-Corruption Court.
This case stems from a troubling incident that began in September 2021 when the accused officials were arrested by the Anti-Corruption Unit – State House Uganda and the Uganda Police, following a complaint alleging that they were illicitly renting out district road equipment to private business individuals in Kiryandongo District. The district’s road construction equipment, which included a vibral roller and a grader, was found to be used against government regulations.
Collaborating closely with the police, investigators probed the matter and successfully recovered the equipment, which was subsequently returned to the Ministry of Works. The unauthorized use of this vital machinery, employed in maintaining essential infrastructure, raised concerns about accountability and adherence to government regulations.
As the legal process unfolded, Vice Chairperson Chiche Benson, Secretary for Production Magambo Jackson, and Secretary for Finance Kumakech Geoffrey have now been sentenced to pay a cash fine of UGX5 million each, sending a clear message that corruption and misconduct will not be tolerated within the district.
The impounded road construction equipment, comprising a vibral roller and grader, was found in Kaduku village, Kiryandongo District, and had been rented out to a private farmer, contrary to the established government regulations.
The conviction of these officials marks a positive step in the ongoing efforts to combat corruption and uphold the rule of law. It is a reminder that the law applies to all, regardless of their position. This incident serves as a call to all public servants to remain committed to their roles with integrity and to act in the best interests of the community, fostering trust, and accountability in government institutions.
