By Our Reporter
In a major anti-corruption crackdown, the Mpigi District LCV Chairperson, Mr. Ssejjemba Martine, along with two senior officials from the District Service Commission, has been arrested over allegations of soliciting bribes in exchange for government jobs.
The joint operation was conducted by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit in coordination with the Criminal Investigations Directorate. Also arrested are Mr. Kirumira Fredrick, Chairperson of the Mpigi District Service Commission, and Ms. Nakamoga Sarah, the Commission’s Secretary.
According to official reports, the arrests were prompted by a directive from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who received complaints during a Parish Development Model (PDM) monitoring tour in the Greater Mpigi area on June 17, 2025.
During the President’s visit, local journalists and whistleblowers revealed that applicants for government jobs in Mpigi were being forced to pay bribes ranging between UGX 50,000 and UGX 15 million in order to be shortlisted or hired by the district.
The President reportedly ordered immediate investigations into the matter, leading to the arrest of the implicated officials less than two weeks later.
Corruption In Recruitment
Preliminary findings suggest a well-coordinated racket within the District Service Commission, where positions meant for public service were being monetized and sold to the highest bidder—undermining the merit-based recruitment system and disadvantaging qualified but underprivileged applicants.
The arrested individuals are expected to be arraigned in court and formally charged once investigations are complete. Authorities say more arrests could follow as the probe widens.
The arrests have drawn praise from anti-corruption advocates and civil society groups, who argue that such actions are long overdue in districts plagued by systemic abuse of power.
“This is a bold step in restoring public trust in recruitment processes. It should serve as a warning to all who use public offices for personal enrichment,” said an official from civil society.
The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has encouraged members of the public who may have paid bribes or been approached by the suspects to come forward with evidence.
As the investigations unfold, the case is expected to spark broader scrutiny into the operations of District Service Commissions across the country.