By Our Reporter
A joint security task force has launched a wide-ranging investigation into Hajjat Medina Naham Ojale, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Director for Administration and Finance, over allegations of gross financial misconduct, procurement irregularities, and the creation of “ghost” beneficiaries.
The probe, according to sources familiar with the matter, follows a series of whistle-blower reports detailing a pattern of systemic corruption that has reportedly left service providers unpaid and some of party activities compromised.
Central to the investigation is the alleged inflation of procurement costs during recent party campaigns. Detectives are scrutinizing records indicating that NRM T-shirts were officially procured at a rate of Shs13,000 each. However, it is alleged that suppliers were only paid Shs7,000 per unit.
The discrepancy reportedly led to the production of substandard materials, as manufacturers cut corners to accommodate the lower payments. Sources further indicate that reputable suppliers who refused to compromise their integrity were sidelined in favor of those willing to participate in “kickback” schemes.
Delegates Conference Irregularities
The scrutiny extends to the recent NRM Delegates Conference, where attendees reportedly complained of being served substandard meals.
Internal reports suggest that food service providers were forced to remit a portion of their contract value as kickbacks to Ms. Naham, severely impacting the quality of the catering.
Furthermore, several service providers and university students recruited as ushers for the event are reportedly still demanding payment, despite the party secretariat releasing the full budget for the conference.
“It is disheartening that young students from various universities who worked tirelessly during the conference have been ignored, yet the funds were requisitioned and received,” a source within the party secretariat, speaking on condition of anonymity, told this publication.
Ghost Delegates and “Ghost” Expenses
Investigators are also verifying allegations that the Director’s office inflated the list of attendees from the West Nile region, her home area. These “ghost delegates” were allegedly used to siphon funds intended for transport and per diem allowances.
Questions have also been raised regarding the Kyankwanzi leadership retreat, where it is claimed Ms. Naham included her husband’s name on the list of beneficiaries to receive official remuneration, despite him holding no formal role in the proceedings.
The Kololo Mansion
Beyond administrative lapses, the joint security team is looking into Ms. Naham’s personal wealth. Of particular interest is the recent purchase of a high-end mansion in the upscale Kampala suburb of Kololo.
Intelligence sources suggest that the market value of the property is significantly disproportionate to her known sources of income as a party official, prompting a lifestyle audit by the investigating agencies.
NRM Response
When contacted for a comment, officials at the NRM Secretariat remained tight-lipped, though insiders confirm that the atmosphere at the Plot 10 Kyadondo Road offices remains tense as security operatives continue to review financial documents.