Politics 9 August 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Minister Balaam Orders Interdiction of Eight Mitooma Officials Over Corruption Allegations
The Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has initiated the interdiction of eight officials in Mitooma District due to accusations of mismanagement, neglect of duty, and administrative irregularities. These actions follow concerns raised about the handling of several government projects and alleged corruption. Source: https://observer.ug/news/corruption-balaam-orders-interdiction-of-eight-mitooma-officials
Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has directed the interdiction of eight key officials in Mitooma District. The directive, sent to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Amis Asuman Masereka, calls for the names of the implicated officials to be submitted to the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary for formal interdiction.
The officials facing interdiction include the District Health Officer, Dr. Sadic Byamugisha; District Education Officer, Peace Gloria Barungi; Senior Engineer, John Baptist Tumwebaze; Civil Engineer-Water, Geoffrey Tumusiime; Senior Environment Officer, Godwin Kagumire; Senior Assistant Secretary, Vincent Rugambwa; Ambulance Driver, Godfrey Mugumya; and Medical Officer, Dr. Patrick Oloya.
Allegations against the officials range from financial mismanagement to dereliction of duty. Notably, Tumwebaze is accused of mishandling over Shs 1 billion in road funds and overseeing substandard work at Rutaka Primary School. Kagumire faces accusations of neglecting environmental protection duties, particularly concerning the degradation of the Rutenga wetland.
These actions stem from concerns raised by Mitooma District Chairperson, Alex Karitundu, regarding numerous government projects. Karitundu highlighted issues such as the Kigyende Seed School, which is only 23% complete despite alleged full payment, and the district skilling centre. Other projects like Ncwera 7 bridge and Kigyende Health Centre IV, where equipment was reportedly stolen, are also under scrutiny.
Further complicating the administrative landscape, Mitooma District has seen twelve CAOs since its inception, with unresolved issues persisting. The Minister also ordered the arrest of the District Service Commission Chairperson, Sam Tugume Karakuza, on allegations of extorting money from job applicants, in collaboration with Dr. Oloya. The Inspectorate of Government, State House Anti-Corruption Unit, and other investigative bodies have been tasked with a comprehensive probe into these matters, focusing on the proper management of public resources and accountability for any wrongdoing.
Source: https://observer.ug/news/corruption-balaam-orders-interdiction-of-eight-mitooma-officials