By Jamillah Kemigisa
A major corruption scandal has rocked Mukono District after three local government officials were arraigned before court over allegations of selling government jobs.
Dr. Wataba Saadi, the Municipal Medical Officer of Lugazi Municipality, appeared before the Mukono Chief Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, charged with Obtaining Money by False Pretence and Conspiracy to Defraud. He was charged alongside Sekikubo Mubarak, Chairperson of LC III, Nakisunga Sub-County, and Mugerwa Ronald Saaku, Probation and Welfare Officer of Lugazi Municipality.
According to court documents, between January and June 2025, the trio allegedly conspired to defraud Dr. Mukisa George William, a job applicant, of UGX 38 million. The accused reportedly claimed they could secure him a government position as a Medical Officer in Mukono District, saying the payment would “facilitate” members of the Mukono District Service Commission to approve his appointment — a claim investigators have dismissed as false.
The case was uncovered following a joint operation involving the Anti-Corruption Division of the Uganda Police Force, the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). Authorities described the alleged scam as a serious abuse of public office that undermines trust in the integrity of government recruitment systems.
“This kind of corruption not only exploits job seekers but also erodes confidence in public institutions,” a senior official from the Anti-Corruption Unit said. “We are committed to ensuring that those involved face the full force of the law.”
If convicted, the accused face lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines, sending what prosecutors say is a clear warning to public officers who exploit citizens for personal gain. Investigators also revealed that other applicants may have fallen victim to similar fraudulent schemes, and further inquiries are underway.
The case has sparked public outrage in Mukono and beyond, reigniting calls for tighter oversight of recruitment processes in the health sector, where competition for government jobs is especially high.
Corruption in public recruitment remains a persistent challenge in Uganda, with officials accused of soliciting bribes from job seekers in exchange for appointments. Analysts warn that such practices weaken service delivery and tarnish the reputation of public institutions.
Mukono District has in recent years faced growing scrutiny over governance and accountability. Anti-corruption agencies have pledged to intensify efforts to curb fraudulent practices and restore transparency in hiring and promotion across the public sector.
The Mukono Chief Magistrate’s Court has adjourned the case to a later date for further hearing.
