Politics 12 October 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Over 550 Arrested in Nationwide Crackdown on PDM Fund Misappropriation
Ugandan authorities have arrested 552 individuals nationwide in a two-month operation targeting the alleged theft and diversion of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds. The crackdown, initiated by presidential directive, has seen a significant number of suspects arraigned in court, with investigations ongoing. Source: https://observer.ug/news/73064
A sweeping nationwide operation has resulted in the arrest of 552 individuals suspected of misappropriating funds allocated under Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM). The two-month crackdown, aimed at combating the theft, embezzlement, and diversion of these critical funds, has seen a significant portion of those arrested, 429, already brought before the courts.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke stated that the operation is ongoing and will be extended to other areas not yet covered. The PDM, launched in February 2022, aims to uplift households from subsistence farming into the money economy by providing access to credit and resources at the parish level, with each parish receiving Shs 100 million annually.
The arrests follow specific directives from President Yoweri Museveni to investigate widespread allegations of fund abuse. The crackdown has so far encompassed 12 police regional jurisdictions, including Karamoja, Teso, and parts of Buganda. Suspects face a range of charges, including theft, embezzlement, abuse of office, and fraud.
SACCO leaders constitute the largest group of arrestees, with 251 detained, followed by parish chiefs (81) and various local government and community leaders. Reports indicate that some officials have been extorting bribes from beneficiaries before disbursing funds or processing applications. Authorities are urging those who have diverted PDM money to return it, warning that legal pursuit will continue.
The PDM program has faced persistent accountability issues since its inception, despite a reported investment of over Shs 3.38 trillion since the 2021/2022 financial year. The ongoing investigations are focused on program managers and handlers, not the intended beneficiaries, and efforts are being made to counter threats against those reporting fraud.