By Bwayo Geoffrey
A recent article published on Swift Daily News has sparked controversy, alleging corruption against Bulambuli District’s LC5 Chairperson, Madam Nandudu Annet. However, a closer examination of the facts reveals a different story. It appears that the chairperson is actually fighting against corruption, and certain individuals are trying to tarnish her image.
The controversy surrounding the district’s road construction projects is a prime example. In the FY 2023/24, UGX 1.5 billion was allocated for road construction, but there is no visible evidence of road development. Councillors made misleading claims about the completion of Tadeo Muleme and Nana Namudongo roads during a council meeting attended by the minister for Economic Monitoring. Area Councillor Buwanyanga Sub County Madam Petwa Wekono was even seen laughing and clapping for this deceit, despite the roads not being completed for her electorates.
Furthermore, the construction of the district main building has been marred by corruption allegations. The contract, worth UGX 1.8 billion, was awarded to Wiljon Estates Limited and fully paid upfront. However, the company has not completed the project according to the specifications outlined in the bill of quantities. The district engineer, Mr. Gimei Milton, subcontracted himself to supply mahogany doors to the district, presented genuine mahogany timber, took photos, and even involved auditors to validate the delivery. However, he later replaced the genuine doors with fake ones made of plywood.
These incidents raise concerns about the integrity and accountability of some councillors in Bulambuli District. The quality of leadership has significantly impacted the district’s dynamics, often working against the District Chairperson. It is deeply concerning that councillors’ actions seem to prioritize shielding corrupt civil servants over serving the best interests of the ordinary citizens.
This is not an isolated incident, as corruption is a widespread problem globally. According to Transparency International’s 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index, over two-thirds of countries score below 50 out of 100, indicating serious corruption problems. The index also highlights that top-scoring countries often fail to go after perpetrators of transnational corruption and their enablers.
It is essential to prioritize the welfare and interests of the common man, rather than protecting corrupt officials. The leadership problem in Bulambuli therefore is not the district chairpersons, but the quality of councillors. As stakeholders, we demand that the relevant authorities take immediate action to protect the chairperson from blackmail and intimidation and ensure that the allegations against the corrupt engineer are investigated thoroughly and appropriate action is taken.
We must learn from global examples, such as the case of Eliot Spitzer, the former Governor of New York, who was forced to resign due to corruption allegations. Similarly, the former President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, was impeached due to corruption charges. These examples demonstrate that corruption can be tackled when there is a strong commitment to accountability and transparency.
In conclusion, the allegations against Madam Nandudu Annet are unfounded, and it is clear that she is fighting against corruption. We must support her efforts and demand accountability from the corrupt individuals involved. The people of Bulambuli District deserve better, and it is our duty to ensure that their interests are protected.
Mr. Bwayo Geoffrey is a key opinion leader in the Elgon Zone. Tel: 0762589133
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