Atanga leaders accused of misusing CAR fund for culvert

22 August 2024, 20:26

By Golden Vicky Ayiro

Leaders in Atanga Sub county are facing serious allegations of corruption concerning the 8.5-million-shilling Community Access Road (CAR) fund allocated for the Lapul-Wilowor culvert in Opate Parish. Despite a specific allocation of 600,000 shillings for the culvert’s construction, the project remains incomplete, prompting calls for transparency and accountability.

Sub county assistant secretary Opolot Joseph and accountant Oceng Peter are at the centre of the controversy. Reports indicate they borrowed substantial amounts from the CAR fund, including 600,000 shillings allegedly for motorbike repairs, 1.4 million shillings for councillor allowances, and 6.3 million shillings for other sub county activities.

Oceng Peter has responded to these allegations by stating, “The funds in question were used for official purposes. I categorically deny any wrongdoing.” He further shifted responsibility for the missing 2.15 million shillings, which were intended for procuring additional culverts, to the SAS, saying, “The 2.15 million shillings should be accounted for by the SAS. I cannot explain its whereabouts.”

LC3 chairperson Ongwech Patrick criticised the progress of the culvert construction, stating, “The quality of work done is substandard, and the delay in completing the project is unacceptable. I am demanding a full refund of the allocated funds.”

District councillor Michael Kidega echoed these concerns, insisting, “It is crucial that we ensure the proper use of public funds. We need compliance and a refund before any involved executives are reassigned to other roles.”

In his defence, SAS Opolot Joseph dismissed the allegations as baseless, stating, “The allegations are unfounded. The work on the culvert is still ongoing.” He directed further inquiries to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), who was unavailable for comment at press time.