QFM
QFM
1 July 2026, 10:58 am

By Hillary Opio Omara
Steven Odongo, Deputy Resident City Commissioner for Lira City East Division, has cautioned newly elected Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCO leaders to serve with integrity and ensure the transparent management of government funds.
Odongo issued the warning while presiding over the election of PDM SACCO leaders for Akia Ward at Akia Primary School.
“The money belongs to the people and must reach the intended beneficiaries. Anyone who attempts to steal or divert these funds will be held personally accountable,” Odongo cautioned.
He urged the newly elected committee members to distribute PDM funds fairly, without favouritism or political interference.
“The government under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has zero tolerance for corruption. Any official found embezzling or mismanaging PDM funds will face the full force of the law,” he said.
Odongo emphasised that the Parish Development Model is a flagship government programme aimed at fighting household poverty and improving livelihoods.

Alex Ongom, NRM Chairperson for Akia Ward, commended the Government for introducing the Parish Development Model (PDM), noting that it has the potential to transform households through financial support for income-generating activities.
“Residents who have received PDM funds, and those who will benefit in future, should invest the money in productive enterprises instead of diverting it to non-developmental activities,” Ongom appealed.
He also encouraged beneficiaries to repay revolving funds on time to enable more community members to access the programme, and urged residents to remain united and to avoid making false accusations against leaders without evidence.

The elections are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen leadership and accountability in the implementation of the Parish Development Model (PDM) across Lira City East Division.