Ugandan Minister of Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, has been accused of various corrupt practices, despite his efforts to champion anti-corruption initiatives. An open letter, published by The Ankole Times, alleges that Byamukama has been involved in several corrupt activities, including the diversion of road equipment for private use and the construction of a tarmacked road to his residence.
According to the letter, Byamukama used road equipment to work on roads not in the Ministry of Works and Transport's workplans, and diverted equipment for private use in his Rutoma village to do bush-clearing. The letter also alleges that Byamukama forged documents to acquire land in Nyansimbi village, where he claimed to be a surviving relative of a man named Kalemba Yowana.
The letter further alleges that Byamukama was involved in the arrest of Bright Alinda in June 2025, after conniving with Kakumiro police CID and the Resident State Attorney. Alinda was charged with defilement, but the charges were dismissed by court due to the use of forged documents. The letter claims that Byamukama's actions were motivated by a desire to prevent Alinda from contesting against him for the NRM party primaries in Bugangaizi West constituency.
In addition to these allegations, the letter claims that Byamukama dragged the former Speaker of parliament to cause the Electoral Commission to deny Kisembo James Wakame a chance to participate in the Parliamentary election for Bugangaizi West Constituency. Wakame appealed to the High Court, but the Electoral Commission delayed releasing the ruling, and Wakame's appeal was deemed untimely.
The letter also mentions that Byamukama and his brother have a matter of forgery at Hoima High Court, registered as Civil Suit No 108 of 2023. The family of Kalemba Yowana is reportedly crying out over allegations that Byamukama forced them to give him 65 million shillings, meant for road construction compensation.
The author of the letter, a veteran journalist, advises Byamukama to "clean his back" before attempting to win Ugandans' hearts as a champion in the fight against corruption. The journalist also praises General Muhoozi Kainerugaba for giving Ugandans a voice in exposing and fighting corruption.
The allegations against Byamukama raise questions about his integrity and ability to champion anti-corruption initiatives. The incident highlights the need for leaders to lead by example and demonstrate accountability in their actions.
Key points
- The allegations against Byamukama include diversion of road equipment for private use and forgery of documents.
- Byamukama's efforts to champion anti-corruption initiatives have been questioned amid allegations of corruption against him.
- The allegations against Byamukama have raised questions about his integrity and ability to lead anti-corruption efforts.
