By Our Reporter
The Chief Magistrates Court in Mpigi has charged and remanded the LC V Chairperson, Mr. Ssejjemba Martine, along with two senior members of the Mpigi District Service Commission over allegations of soliciting bribes in exchange for government jobs.
Also charged are Mr. Fredrick Kirumira, the Chairperson of the District Service Commission, and Ms. Sarah Nakamoga, the Secretary to the Commission. The trio appeared before court on Monday and were remanded to prison until 8th July 2025 as investigations continue.
According to court documents, the accused allegedly demanded money by menaces from job applicants seeking employment within the district’s public service structures. Reports indicate that bribes ranging from UGX 50,000 to UGX 15 million were solicited as part of the recruitment process.
The arrests stem from a directive issued by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni during his Parish Development Model (PDM) monitoring tour in the Greater Mpigi area on 17th June 2025. While addressing residents, the President received multiple complaints from locals alleging that recruitment into public service roles had been monetized, with applicants being asked to pay bribes in order to be shortlisted or hired.
In response, the President ordered Brig. Gen. Henry Isoke, the head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, to swiftly investigate the claims and take appropriate action. Within days, arrests were made and evidence presented to the courts.
The case has sent shockwaves across the district, where the integrity of public recruitment processes has long been under scrutiny. Anti-corruption watchdogs have welcomed the swift action, calling it a strong signal against impunity in local governments.
The accused remain in custody at Mpigi Government Prison as they await further legal proceedings. The charges they face carry serious consequences if convicted, including jail terms and dismissal from public service.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has assured the public that more investigations are underway and that no official involved in corrupt practices will be spared, regardless of rank.