Minister Balaam Orders Arrest of Six Rukiga Officials Over Corruption Allegations

State Minister for Local Government Balaam Barugahara has ordered the arrest of six Rukiga District officials and a former sub-county chairperson over alleged corruption and fraudulent practices. The directive was issued during an anti-corruption campaign launch in the Kigezi sub-region at the Rukiga District Council Hall.

Those targeted for arrest include former principal human resource officer Nicholas Kananura, chief finance officer Bruce Turyamushangayo, district education officer Christopher Ndyabegira, water engineer Evans Bangirana, district engineer Deogratious Mutabazi, district fisheries officer Richard Sajabi, and former Rwamucucu Sub-county chairperson Eddy Mugisha, who faces accusations of land grabbing.

Minister Barugahara stated that he gathered concrete evidence linking the officials to financial misconduct. Key issues highlighted included questionable procurement deals, such as the purchase of 90 chairs at Shs950,000 each from a Kabale-based firm during the 2025/2026 financial year. The minister also flagged irregular staff recruitment and the distribution of iron sheets for school classrooms that lacked proper foundations or council authorization.

Additionally, the minister requested the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to investigate the district service commission over staff transfers and recruitment processes. He also condemned the illegal charging of examination fees to Primary Seven and Senior Six candidates in government-aided institutions despite state coverage.

During the engagement, Rukiga LCV Chairperson Simon Mutebi Rwamagyenda requested increased central government funding, better councilor allowances, and road maintenance equipment suited for the hilly Kigezi terrain. Minister Barugahara later addressed residents at Kakatunda Playground to hear further grievances regarding public service delivery.

For more details on this developing story, read the original report on Daily Monitor.