KOTIDO, April 19, 2026 — Kapeta Sub-county in Kotido district is set for a sweeping leadership shake-up, with officials moving to replace all leaders of the Parish Development Model Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations [PDM SACCOs] following mounting corruption allegations.
Bernard Kiyonga Oyoyo, the Senior Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, announced the move, citing directives from the PDM Secretariat aimed at restoring integrity and transparency in a programme designed to uplift the poor.
Oyoyo underscored the urgency of the matter, revealing that the directive was issued by Denis Galabuzi Ssozi, the National Coordinator at the PDM Secretariat, in a letter dated March 17, 2026. The letter was addressed to all Chief Administrative Officers [CAOs] and Town Clerks as part of a broader effort to tackle systemic corruption affecting PDM implementation across the region.
“The ongoing corruption allegations have crippled the initiative meant to support the vulnerable. We have received numerous reports from beneficiaries who feel cheated and disillusioned,” Kiyonga said.
Following a community meeting with beneficiaries last week, he has initiated preparations for Annual General Meetings to elect new and more accountable leadership.
The decision has been welcomed by residents in Kotido, reflecting growing frustration with the current leadership. “It is about time we had a change. The previous leaders seem to have lost touch with the community and have been compromised,” said Regina Kapel, a resident of Kokoria, who has been vocal about the need for transparency in PDM leadership.
She further alleged that some leaders have been receiving bribes from beneficiaries to fast-track their inclusion in the next funding cycle.
Joseph Akol, a member of the Losakucha PDM SACCO, echoed similar concerns, criticising the lack of transparency. “It is disheartening to see some leaders misusing mobilisation funds without consulting the rest of us. They have taken advantage of our trust,” he said.
Ichumar Martha, from Lobanya, added: “Oversight on corruption has been weak, and it is high time we hold our leaders accountable.”
Oyoyo also reminded beneficiaries of the revolving nature of PDM funds, stressing the importance of repayment. “Those who accessed the funds must adhere to the repayment guidelines to ensure that new applicants can also benefit,” he said.
He cautioned against the misconception that PDM funds are grants from President Yoweri Museveni, emphasising that they are loans intended to support sustainable development among economically disadvantaged communities.
In a bid to curb further exploitation, Oyoyo condemned the practice of individuals selling their identities to third parties, noting that registered beneficiaries remain legally responsible for any misuse of funds. “PDM funds are strictly for the poor; those with better financial standing are encouraged to engage with the Emyooga programme instead,” he added.
Francis Obita, the Kotido District Commercial Officer, confirmed that the exercise will be conducted across all parishes in the district, with elections expected to be completed by June 30, 2026, in line with new guidelines. “We are currently mobilising resources for parish-level meetings to ensure a smooth transition and that the elections are fair and transparent,” he said.
The renewed push for accountability has resonated with beneficiaries, who are calling for leadership that prioritises their welfare and restores confidence in the PDM initiative. As the elections approach, community vigilance and participation are expected to play a critical role in ensuring meaningful reform and rebuilding trust.
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