Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara has referred 16 district staff to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit over alleged financial loss to government, following concerns about the quality of publicly funded infrastructure.
Sixteen Rubanda District Local Government officials have been referred to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit for investigation over alleged financial loss to government following an inspection of public projects in the district.
Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara made the referral during an anti-corruption tour of the Kigezi Sub-region, where he questioned the quality of infrastructure and raised concerns about value for money in government-funded projects.
Balaam began the inspection at Bugiri Crossing Bridge in Kakore Parish, Hamurwa Sub-county, before visiting Karukara Market and Rubanda General Hospital to assess infrastructure and service delivery.
At the bridge, reportedly constructed at a cost of Shs85 million, the minister questioned the quality of the work and its durability, particularly during heavy rainfall.
He pointed to cracks in the concrete, poorly bonded stones and soil accumulated along the water channel, saying the defects raised concerns about the materials used and the quality of workmanship.
The inspection prompted scrutiny of whether public funds had delivered infrastructure capable of serving the intended purpose.
“The anti-corruption tour is intended to promote accountability and ensure public funds deliver quality infrastructure and better services, including healthcare,” Balaam said.
The referral of the 16 officials places the district's handling of public projects under investigation. However, the referral does not in itself establish that the officials caused financial loss or committed any offence.
Finance Minister Henry Musasizi welcomed the anti-corruption initiative in the Kigezi Sub-region, describing it as long overdue.
“There is need to ensure value for money in government projects and strengthen accountability in public spending,” Musasizi said.
Barugahara is expected to continue the anti-corruption tour in Kanungu and Rukungiri districts next week as the government steps up scrutiny of public projects and service delivery.
The outcome of the investigations will be key to establishing whether irregularities occurred, the extent of any financial loss and whether individual officials bear responsibility.