Sacco boss accused of asking for sex in exchange for PDM cash

Tensions rose in Okanyapuru Parish, Ogoma Sub County, Kumi District in eastern Uganda as the Minister of State for Microfinance and Small Enterprises, Mr Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo intervened to address allegations of sexual demands and extortion by a Sacco chairperson, Mr Michael Ocuma.

Mr Haruna Kyeyune is on a PDM monitoring visit in Kumi District. 

The incident unfolded as Mr Ocuma faced accusations from Giripasio Odwongo, a person living with disability, for allegedly demanding sexual favours and extortion of Shs80,000 from his wife, Ms Janet Aanyu. Mr Odwongo claimed that after his wife had offered the money as a bribe to Mr Ocuma, the Sacco chairperson made inappropriate advances.

Mr Odwongo said, "I am a disabled person, and we, as disabled individuals, rely on women. He wants to take my wife."

In his defense, Mr Ocuma argued that Mr Odwongo was his clan member with existing clan-related conflicts before he vehemently denied any wrongdoing. He insisted that he is a married man with no interest in the spouses of others.

Mr Ocuma questioned the credibility of the allegations, claiming that Mr Odwongo's wife had issues with hygiene and alcohol consumption, stating, "His wife is a drunkard who doesn't bathe. How could I be interested in such a woman?"

Mr Kasolo, immediately ordered Mr Ocuma to provide a statement to the police and the Office of the Resident District Commissioner (RDC).

Kumi District Police Commander (DPC), Buyinza Twaha told this publication that statements were obtained from both parties and promised a thorough investigation following "several allegations" against Mr Ocuma.

Mr Nelson Akol Elungnat, the LC5 Chairperson for Kumi emphasised the need to investigate multiple issues surrounding PDM, hinting at potential fraud within its operations.