news 9 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ankole Officials Face Interdiction Amidst Minister Barugahara's Anti-Graft Drive
At least 26 local government officials in the Ankole sub-region are facing interdiction following recommendations from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit over alleged corruption and misuse of public funds. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/26-district-officials-in-ankole-face-interdiction-in-minister-balaam-s-corruption-crackdown-5552508
Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has initiated a significant anti-corruption crackdown in the Ankole region, leading to the potential interdiction of 26 district officials. These officials, drawn from Isingiro, Buhweju, Mitooma, and Mbarara City, are under scrutiny for alleged corruption, financial mismanagement, and administrative lapses.
The move follows strong recommendations from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SHACU) to the Ministry of Local Government’s Permanent Secretary. Minister Barugahara stressed that these temporary suspensions are crucial to ensure impartial investigations without interference, emphasizing that those interdicted are suspects, not yet convicted.
Mitooma District has seen eight officials suspended, including the District Health Officer and the District Education Officer. Their interdiction, lasting six months, aligns with the Uganda Public Service Standing Orders, which allow for such measures to facilitate investigations. During this period, affected officers will receive half their basic salary and face restrictions on work premises access and travel.
The crackdown is extensive, with Isingiro District identifying eight key officials, including the Chief Administrative Officer, for investigation related to missing road funds. In Buhweju District, eleven officials are facing allegations of corruption, misconduct, and lacking necessary academic qualifications. Notably, a Shs5 billion fund for district road maintenance is also under investigation for alleged mismanagement.
Mbarara City has named nine officials, including the Town Clerk and Finance Officer, for investigation concerning urban resource mismanagement and questionable infrastructure projects. This Ankole operation is part of a larger, nationwide anti-graft campaign spearheaded by Minister Barugahara and his assistant, Ms. Justine Nameere, targeting ghost workers and financial leakages across various regions.