Masaka City Security Committee Probes Allegations of Extortion by Senior Commercial Officer

The Masaka City Security Committee has launched an investigation into the conduct of Joseph Mugerwa, the City Senior Commercial Officer, following allegations of extorting money from beneficiaries of government wealth creation programs.   

Mugerwa stands accused of soliciting bribes from beneficiaries of various programs, including the Parish Development Model (PDM), Youth Livelihood Program (YLP), and Emyooga, before approving their funding proposals.   

Huudu Hussein, the Masaka City Resident Commissioner, revealed that numerous complaints have been received from beneficiaries, who have provided intelligence against Mugerwa's alleged misconduct. 

These investigations follow Mugerwa's recent return to office after a six-month suspension imposed by former Masaka City Clerk Godfrey Bemanyisa due to insubordination and abuse of office.    

Hussein stated that the security committee has decided to conduct a special inquiry into the allegations, and the subsequent report will guide their actions. 

Many beneficiaries, according to reports, who failed to comply with Mugerwa's demands had their applications rejected or were compelled to pay kickbacks from their loan money.   

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Luganda

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Vincent Okurut, the Masaka City Clerk, echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging complaints about Mugerwa's conduct. He emphasized that such unethical behavior hampers the effective implementation of government programs in the area and emphasized the need for investigations to restore order.   

Okurut mentioned that the investigations team will summon Mugerwa to respond to the allegations before concluding. When approached for comment, Joseph Mugerwa declined to address the allegations and ongoing investigations against him.