Parliament Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth has strongly warned local leaders in Tororo District against mismanaging Parish Development Model (PDM) funds, vowing a decisive crackdown on corruption.
He emphasized that public resources must reach intended beneficiaries without diversion and pledged to lead by example in fighting corruption.
Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Marksons Oboth, has issued a resolute ultimatum to sub-county and parish leaders in West Budama Central County, Tororo District, concerning the integrity of Parish Development Model (PDM) funds.
During a PDM progress review meeting at his residence, Oboth declared that any leader found engaging in corruption, particularly by extorting kickbacks from vulnerable recipients, would face severe repercussions.
“I was elected Speaker to fight corruption, and I will lead by example,” Oboth stated to an assembly of local officials, administrators, and security personnel.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that public funds reach their intended destinations without any form of diversion.
The high-level meeting convened various grassroots stakeholders, including sub-county and parish chiefs, LC chairpersons, GISOs, local councilors, and SACCO leaders, alongside key district officials like RDC Salim Bategana and DPC Martin Karrekyezi.
RDC Bategana urged the administrators to champion the PDM as a tool for permanent poverty alleviation.
The meeting highlighted successful PDM interventions, including the case of Beatrice Nyafwono.
A Shs1 million loan enabled her to invest in piglets and a cassava garden, leading to the purchase of livestock and the establishment of a retail shop, securing her a stable income.
DPC Karrekyezi pledged police support to protect PDM beneficiaries and their assets, particularly livestock, from theft, calling for transparency and legal accountability rather than concealment of criminals.
Speaker Oboth echoed this, urging officials to respect the justice system and allow the law to take its course.
Oboth warned against attempts to exploit the system and divert PDM resources, emphasizing accountability for all involved.
He encouraged leaders to be content with their official salaries and resist the temptation of kickbacks or ostentatious spending for public approval.
Despite implementation hurdles, PDM reports indicate substantial financial support has been disbursed in West Budama Central County.
Between 2022 and 2025, Shs8.590 billion was distributed to 7,873 families, with an additional Shs1.072 billion awaiting disbursement.
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