Clan leader sacked for stealing condolence money meant for family of deceased NRM official

Summary:

• The leader of Okadameri Clan is accused of stealing Shs2 million from President Museveni’s condolence funds for the family of Charles Owani, a deceased NRM official. Despite the return of the money, the clan has removed him from his position.

---

The leader of Okadameri Clan, accused of misappropriating condolence funds intended for the family of the late Charles Owani, Secretary General of the Apac National Resistance Movement (NRM) elders’ league, has been ousted from his position.

Following allegations of embezzlement involving Shs2 million from President Museveni’s Shs10 million condolence offer, members of the clan have demanded the resignation of their chief, Jimmy Anthony Oyuku.

Joel Patrick Opeto, spokesperson for Okadameri Clan, revealed that the funds went missing during Owani’s burial on April 10, 2024, prompting an investigation into the matter.

Reportedly, Prof William Otim Nape entrusted the full amount to the accused for safekeeping overnight, but only Shs8 million was delivered to the family the next day. It is alleged that the clan leader retained Shs2 million under the guise of aiding individuals involved in securing the condolence grant.

Martin Okello, the deceased’s son, confirmed that they sought assistance from the Apac Resident District Commissioner (RDC) to recover the missing funds, emphasizing their desire for restitution rather than punishment.

A subsequent clan meeting convened on April 27 at Future Prospects Technical School in Lira City resulted in a unanimous decision to remove the accused from his leadership role within the clan. The deputy clan leader has been appointed as the interim chief.

On April 29, 2024, the Apac RDC announced the successful recovery of the Shs2 million, which was promptly returned to Owani’s family. Despite this, Okadameri Clan spokesperson Opeto asserted that the decision to relieve the clan leader of his duties remains irreversible.

Background information reveals that initially, Shs10 million was dispatched by President Museveni through the Office of the National Coordinator (ONC), with the accused claiming a portion as reimbursement for assistance in processing the funds.

Subsequently, the Office of the RDC intervened upon learning of the situation, leading to the apprehension of the clan leader and the demand for the return of the misappropriated funds.

At the time of his passing, Owani held the position of general secretary of the NRM elders’ league in Apac District.

Follow @examinerug