Date: November 25, 2023
Authorities in Kyegegwa district have initiated an investigation into allegations of irregularities surrounding the construction of a local market and the provision of healthcare services. Dr. Okiria, the deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), ordered the probe in response to numerous complaints from community members and district leaders.
Dr. Okiria expressed her concerns regarding the ongoing construction of the market, which is nearing completion. She announced plans to dispatch a team to conduct a special inquiry and a value-for-money audit to assess whether the work aligns with the allocated funds. Once the investigations are concluded, those found responsible for any wrongdoing will face prosecution.
Vendors who are set to occupy the market have reported issues such as water leakage during rainy periods. As a result, they have decided to withhold occupation until the identified defects are rectified. Dr. Okiria criticized the district leaders for their failure to supervise the contractor and questioned the decision to continue making payments despite the apparent lack of value for money.
Prior to his arrest, Mr. Mutebi, the contractor responsible for the project, explained that a substantial portion of the funds was utilized to level the hilly ground before commencing the actual construction. He assured that the workers would rectify all defects before handing over the completed market to the district authorities.
In addition to the market construction, Dr. Okiria also visited Kyegegwa General Hospital in response to complaints from patients regarding alleged extortion, particularly in the maternity ward. During her impromptu visit, she engaged with the health workers and cautioned them about the allegations. Dr. Okiria expressed concern that despite an adequate supply of drugs in stock, patients were still being charged. The hospital's drug budget had also increased significantly, from Shs19 million to Shs30 million per month.
Furthermore, the deputy IGG scrutinized a road network construction project worth Shs1.9 billion, spanning 40 kilometers from Nabingoola in Mubende to Kakaabara in Kyegegwa. She questioned the contractor, PEKASA, regarding the payment received despite the incomplete road. Dr. Okiria recommended that PEKASA rectify the identified defects, emphasizing that insufficient work had been done. Issues such as impassable spots and improper installation of culverts were identified.
The investigation launched by the authorities aims to address the alleged irregularities in the market construction and healthcare services in Kyegegwa district. Dr. Okiria's visit and subsequent actions highlight the commitment to ensuring accountability and the delivery of quality public services.
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