Uganda Intensifies Crackdown on Parish Development Model (PDM) Extortion
Investigations are underway across Uganda following reports of extortion and abuse related to the Parish Development Model (PDM) program. The crackdown, led by SSP Byaruhanga Mworozi, Special Presidential Assistant on Police Affairs, comes after complaints from citizens during recent engagements with President Yoweri Museveni in Kasese, Kiryandongo, and Entebbe.
Kasese District: Initial Complaints and Arrests
The initial complaints surfaced on December 4, 2025, in Kasese District, where residents, including Councillor Masika Joy of Kamayiba Ward, reported PDM abuse directly to President Museveni during a campaign rally. Investigations revealed that nine enterprise groups had been defrauded. Two individuals, Biira Teopista and Biira Christine, were subsequently arrested and charged with obtaining money by false pretence under Kasese CRB 872/2025. Chimpreports reports they appeared before the Grade One Magistrate’s Court on January 6, 2026, and were released on bail. Further investigations are ongoing with Wameyo Paul and Mugisha John also appearing in court under Kasese CRB 878/2025.
Kiryandongo District: Convictions Secured
In Kiryandongo District, concerns regarding mismanagement and extortion were raised on December 10, 2025. A follow-up meeting on December 12 between SSP Byaruhanga, police officials, and complainants from Panyadoli Sub-county identified 14 cases under investigation. Watchdog Uganda reports that two cases have been concluded, resulting in the conviction of six individuals: Akello Esther, Abalo Margaret, Bugumirwa Patrick, Aluku Joel, Amusolo Eunice, and Mukwana Jacob. The remaining cases are currently being heard in court.
Entebbe: New Allegations and Arrests
On January 5, 2026, in Entebbe, Nakasoma Tereza, also known as Nabakyala of Namulanda, reported that 14 members of her enterprise group were extorted during registration by officials of the Namulanda PDM SACCO. Investigations led to the arrest of Kalega Joseph and Kibowa Henry, who have been charged with 15 counts of obtaining money by false pretence under Kajjansi CRB 22/2026. They appeared in court on February 11, 2026, and were remanded, with the case scheduled for further hearing on April 20, 2026. TheSpy Uganda provides details on this case.
Government Response and Public Awareness
The government is publicizing arrests and court proceedings to deter further misuse of PDM funds and encourage citizens to report any instances of extortion or abuse. Authorities emphasize that access to PDM support is free of charge and that no official is authorized to solicit money for registration or participation. State House Uganda has affirmed the commitment to ensuring the integrity of the PDM program.
Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities, and investigative, prosecutorial, and judicial bodies have been urged to expedite these cases to maintain public confidence in the Parish Development Model.
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