AntiGraft_SH, together with @CID1_UG and @ODPP, have arraigned Dr. Odung Tony, the District Health Officer of Alebtong District Local Government, before the Anti-Corruption Court on serious charges of causing financial loss to the Government. The charges relate to UGX 165,520,800, which was allegedly lost through irregular payments and failure to follow proper procurement procedures.
Dr. Odung Tony is accused of working together with the former Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Otim Ben Ogwette, and the former Chief Finance Officer (CFO), Andeoye Stephen, in making an irregular payment to Otada Construction Ltd. The money was meant for upgrading Angweta Health Centre II and Angwei Health Centre II to Health Centre IIIs during the 2019/2020 financial year. However, the payment was allegedly made without securing an advance payment guarantee, which is a key requirement in government contracts to protect public funds.
An advance payment guarantee ensures that if a contractor fails to complete the work, the government can recover the money. In this case, Otada Construction Ltd reportedly abandoned the project after receiving the funds. As a result, the health centres were not upgraded as planned, and the government lost over 165 million shillings. This has greatly affected service delivery in the area, as residents were expecting improved health facilities.
The court heard that the failure to follow proper procurement procedures led to the financial loss. Authorities believe that due process was ignored, putting public funds at risk. The former CAO and CFO, who are said to have been involved in the transaction, are currently still at large. Criminal summons have been issued requiring them to appear in court.
Dr. Odung Tony has been remanded until 5th March 2026 as investigations and court proceedings continue. The Anti-Corruption Court is expected to handle the matter as part of ongoing efforts to fight corruption and protect public resources.
This case sends a strong warning to public officials about the importance of accountability and transparency in managing government funds. It also shows the continued commitment of AntiGraft_SH, CID1_UG, and ODPP to ensure that those accused of misusing public resources are brought before the law.
