By Spy Uganda
A Community Development Officer (CDO) attached to Soroti City has been arraigned in court over allegations of extorting money from beneficiaries of the Parish Development Model (PDM), in a case that has raised fresh concerns about accountability in grassroots government programs.
The suspect, Alajo Hellen, who serves as the CDO for Kengere Ward in Soroti City East Division, was on Wednesday presented before the Soroti Chief Magistrate’s Court and charged with obtaining money by false pretence.
The arraignment follows a joint operation by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, Criminal Investigations Directorate, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
According to investigators, Alajo allegedly exploited her position to solicit money from more than 121 PDM beneficiaries in Soroti City East Division. She is accused of collecting various sums under the pretext of facilitating group registration, renewing certificates, and purchasing stationery.
Further investigations revealed that after beneficiaries received their government disbursement of UGX 1,000,000 under the PDM program, the suspect allegedly demanded additional payments ranging between UGX 10,000 and UGX 50,000 from each individual.
Prosecutors state that she falsely claimed the extra funds were required to facilitate community-based trainers and to enable beneficiaries access additional funding in the next financial year claims that were later found to be untrue.
Authorities say the alleged scheme targeted vulnerable beneficiaries who depend on the Parish Development Model, a flagship government initiative aimed at lifting households out of subsistence economy through direct financial support.
The court remanded Alajo to prison custody until May 27, 2026, as investigations and prosecution of the case continue.
Anti-corruption agencies have reiterated their commitment to safeguarding public funds and protecting citizens from exploitation, warning that officials who abuse government programs for personal gain will be held accountable.
The case adds to a growing list of enforcement actions targeting misuse of PDM funds, as the government moves to tighten oversight and restore public confidence in the initiative.
