The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has taken action against two senior officials from the National Teachers’ College in Kaliro over allegations of corruption and misuse of public funds. The IG has directed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, to interdict the officials while the case is still ongoing in court. This move is meant to protect public interest and ensure that justice is not interfered with.
The officials in question are Ms. Lanyero Evelyn Grace, the Principal of the college, and Mr. Okiria Clement Epalat, the Accountant. They are accused of abuse of office and causing financial loss to the Government of Uganda. The IG revealed that in November 2022, the two officials irregularly paid UGX120.9 million to a restaurant, M/s Nissi Restaurant and Take Away, claiming it was for meals and refreshments during an ICT Retooling Workshop. The payment was found to be fraudulent and caused financial loss to the government.
Ms. Lanyero was arrested by the IG and brought before the Anti-Corruption Court. She denied the charges and was released on bail by Her Worship Esther Asiimwe. She is expected to return to court on June 27, 2025, for a further mention of her case. Meanwhile, Mr. Epalat has not yet been arrested. The court has issued criminal summons for him to appear on the same date.
In addition to the UGX120 million case, Mr. Epalat is also accused of irregularly processing a payment of UGX12.4 million as withholding tax to Uganda Revenue Authority. He allegedly knew that the transaction would result in financial loss, and it indeed did. Both officials are also charged with abuse of office after obtaining a UGX45 million loan from Stanbic Bank on behalf of the college, which was done without proper procedures and caused further loss.
According to the Constitution of Uganda and the IG Act, the Inspectorate has the power to make decisions and give directions necessary to protect public resources and ensure accountability. In this case, the IG found it appropriate to order the suspension of the two officials to prevent any interference in the ongoing case.
This scandal has raised serious concerns about the management of funds in public institutions, especially in the education sector. It serves as a strong reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability among public servants.
For more information, the public is encouraged to reach out to Hajjat Ali Munira, Manager Strategic Partnerships and Public Relations at 0701966966 or via email at munira@igg.go.ug, or Mr. Farouk Kayondo, Supervisor Strategic Partnerships and Public Relations at 0782323386 or fkayondo@igg.go.ug.
