Cash For Jobs Scandal: Mitooma Official Netted For ‘Milking’ Millions From Job Seekers

By Swift Reporter

A parish chief from Mitooma District has been arraigned before the Anti-Corruption Court on charges of corruption after allegedly extorting money from job seekers in exchange for promises of employment.

The suspect, Owarimpa Esther, who served as Parish Chief of Ruhehe North Parish in Kabira Sub-County, was presented in court following a joint operation by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Prosecutors allege that between October 2025 and January 2026, Owarimpa solicited and received millions of shillings from individuals seeking government jobs. She reportedly claimed she had the ability to influence recruitment decisions by the District Service Commission in Mitooma.

According to investigators, the accused used her position within the district local government to convince applicants that she could secure them employment placements in exchange for bribes.

She has been remanded until April 27, 2026, as investigations continue.

Authorities say the case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption in public service, particularly schemes that exploit vulnerable job seekers. The Anti-Corruption Court has in recent months handled a growing number of cases involving officials accused of abusing their offices for personal gain.

Officials have reiterated their commitment to holding public servants accountable and urged citizens to report any instances of bribery or extortion during recruitment processes.