The Minister for Local Government Balaam Ateenyi has called for an independent investigation into 26 staff members of Ntungamo District Local Government over alleged financial irregularities involving UGX 5.9 billion in public funds.
Ateenyi raised concerns over the alleged misuse of road funds, questionable staff allowances, suspected salary diversion outside the Integrated Personnel and Payroll System (IPPS), and other transactions involving district resources.
In a statement, the minister demanded a comprehensive investigation to establish how the funds were spent and whether public money had been misappropriated.
He also questioned expenditure on water projects, claiming that more than UGX 500 million had reportedly been spent on the initiatives without visible results on the ground.
“Over UGX 500m was reportedly spent on water projects, yet ZERO water is on the ground!” Ateenyi said, expressing concern over the apparent gap between public expenditure and service delivery.
The allegations raise questions about the management of public resources in the district, particularly funds intended to improve essential services such as roads and access to clean water.
Ateenyi insisted that the matter should be subjected to a thorough and independent inquiry, with investigators examining the transactions and establishing accountability for every shilling spent.
He further called for the recovery of any funds found to have been misappropriated and the prosecution of individuals where evidence supports criminal charges.
“Those implicated must answer to the law, with due process respected. Taxpayers deserve roads, clean water and services not unanswered questions,” he said.
The minister's demands place the spotlight on accountability in local government institutions, where public funds are allocated to support infrastructure development and improve the welfare of residents.
However, the allegations against the 26 district staff members have not been independently established, and an investigation would be required to determine whether any laws or financial regulations were violated.
The minister did not provide further details on the individual staff members implicated, the specific transactions under scrutiny, or the timeline for the proposed investigation.
There was also no immediate response from Ntungamo District Local Government addressing the allegations.
The outcome of the inquiry is expected to clarify how the disputed funds were utilised and whether disciplinary or criminal action will be warranted.