Leaders and residents of Namayingo district are demanding the transfer of their District Police Commander, Joseph Kamukama.
Several accusations have surfaced that the DPC has been taking bribes and also connected to the theft of equipment at the CN sugar factory construction site.
At a Monday joint meeting organised by Trevor Baleke, the Namayingo Deputy Resident District Commissioner, the community’s frustration was evident.
Several district leaders boldly came forward to accuse DPC-Kamukama of openly acting as an agent for Bugiri Sugar Factory.
They further alleged that he repeatedly tried to influence them to oppose the establishment of the CN sugar factory within the district, promising them some financial reward in return.
According to the district leaders, Kamukama’s actions are not only corrupt but also detrimental to the district’s potential for development and job creation.
In the telephone recordings obtained by our reporter, the DPC is heard advising the district vice chairperson to accept money from the already-established Bugiri sugar factory.
Earlier, this money was meant to persuade the leaders to oppose the new competitor (CN factory).
The DPC is also heard warning that if the vice chairperson declines the offer, then Bugiri sugar factory would divert the money to the trade ministry to suppress the new factory’s progress.
In addition, Kamukama further said: “Look here, Bugiri Sugar factory is willing to pay anyone who would assist in sabotaging their new competitor (CN sugar factory)”.
“All sugar factories in Busoga region are united in their effort to block the new factory (CN) from being set up in the area,” Kamukama told to the district chairperson, in a recorded phone call.
At the Monday meeting, LC5 Chairperson Ronald Ssanya presented a petition to the office of the Inspector General of Police, including audio recordings that expose the misconduct and unprofessionalism of the District Police Commander (DPC).
“I have decided to stand up for the people of Namayingo, even if it puts my life at risk. We need the CN sugar factory in our district,” Ssanya declared.
He also requested the transfer of DPC Kamukama from Namayingo, and his office confirmed they received the request.