Rubirizi Residents Demand Permanent Ombudsman Office Amid Corruption Allegations

Residents of Rubirizi District have voiced their deep frustrations with systemic corruption and inadequate service delivery, demanding that the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) establish a permanent presence in the area. Despite heavy rains, hundreds gathered at the district headquarters for Ombudsman Day, highlighting the urgency of their grievances.

Locals shared numerous accounts of alleged maladministration, extortion, and abuse of office by district officials and local leaders. Many felt abandoned by existing administrative and security structures, which they claim have failed to provide justice or protection. Ms. Esteri Bamubona, a 60-year-old resident, recounted being illegally evicted from her land after her husband’s death, with local officials offering no assistance.

The corruption allegedly extends to government poverty-alleviation initiatives. Ms. Mary Namuyunga alleged she was forced to pay a bribe to her local chief after receiving funds from the Parish Development Model (PDM). “I reported this matter to the authorities and even to district leaders, but I was never helped,” she stated, adding that the kickback diminished the intended impact of the funds.

Residents described corruption as an entrenched syndicate that blocks access to justice. “Our leaders eat together,” remarked Mr. Silvester Mwesigwa. “You cannot report a corrupt civil servant or complain about denial of service and expect assistance.” Beyond these specific issues, complaints also included illegal levies in fishing communities, poor road networks, substandard healthcare, and extortion in the education sector.

The Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Matia Mbebembeire, acknowledged the severity of the issues, noting that unresolved disputes have led to significant psychological distress, including suicides. He pledged full cooperation with the IGG to investigate and resolve these problems.

Responding to the testimonies, Ms. Sarah Magoola, Head of the Mbarara Regional IGG Office, summoned several implicated officials for an immediate inquiry and assured the public that formal investigations would commence shortly, despite existing resource constraints. The IGG office committed to conducting regular outreach programs to ensure accountability.

This event underscores the pressing need for accessible oversight mechanisms to combat corruption at the grassroots level. For more details, please refer to the Daily Monitor article.