Amuca PDM Chairperson Arrested Over Alleged Sale of Free Maize Seeds

LIRA CITY — The Chairperson of the Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCO in Amuca Ward, Lira City, has been arrested over allegations of charging beneficiaries money for government-supplied maize seeds that were meant to be distributed free of charge.

The suspect, identified as Alfonse Ojok, was arrested following complaints that some beneficiaries were being asked to pay Shs3,000 to receive the government-supplied seeds.

The arrest has raised fresh concerns over accountability in the distribution of agricultural inputs under government programmes in Lira City.

Seeds supplied to support farmers

The maize seeds were supplied as part of government efforts to support farmers and improve agricultural production among households participating in government livelihood programmes.

Beneficiaries are expected to receive the inputs according to the programme's distribution arrangements without being subjected to additional charges.

The alleged demand for money therefore prompted concern among beneficiaries and local authorities.

Investigation launched

Security authorities have started investigating the circumstances surrounding the alleged collection of money from beneficiaries.

Investigators are expected to establish whether the payments were demanded from beneficiaries, who authorised the alleged charges and whether any money was collected from farmers.

Authorities will also establish how the government-supplied maize seeds were received and distributed within Amuca Ward.

Accountability concerns

The incident has renewed calls for greater transparency in the implementation of government programmes at parish and community level.

Residents have been encouraged to report any official or group representative who demands money for government services or inputs that are supposed to be provided without charge.

Local leaders have also been urged to ensure that beneficiaries are properly informed about their entitlements so that they can identify and report irregularities.

The suspect remains under investigation, and the allegations have not been proven in court.

Authorities are expected to provide further information as investigations continue.