The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has recommended that Geoffrey Okidi, the Assistant Chief Administrative Officer (ACAO) of Kole district, be dismissed over allegations of forging academic documents.
The recommendation was made by Deputy Inspector General of Government (IGG), Dr. Patricia Okiria Achan, during her visit to the Lango sub-region.
Dr. Okiria’s visit was to promote transparency, accountability, and anti-corruption (TAAC) in government projects and programs.
The investigation into Okidi’s academic credentials revealed that he allegedly falsified a diploma in Records and Information Management from the Uganda Management Institute (UMI).Geoffrey The findings have raised serious concerns about the vetting processes in public service and the need for stricter compliance with anti-corruption measures.
According to the IGG’s report, Okidi claimed to have obtained a diploma from UMI in 2011. However, investigations uncovered that the document was forged.
A letter from Rita Nabatende Walala, Deputy Secretary of UMI, dated October 26, 2020, explicitly disowned the diploma, stating that it was not an official document issued by the institution.
Additionally, Okidi’s name was conspicuously absent from the 10th graduation ceremony book of March 30, 2012, which listed all graduates from that period.
During an interview with the IGG team, Okidi maintained that he had attended UMI and completed the diploma program. However, none of the individuals he named as his classmates could be verified as having graduated alongside him. This discrepancy further solidified the case against him.
The IGG also highlighted Kole district’s failure to comply with a 2021 directive to address irregularities in public service appointments.
Despite the allegations against him, Okidi continued to serve as the Acting Sub-County Chief of Okwerodot Sub-County while holding the title of Assistant CAO. This lapse in enforcement has raised questions about the district’s commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring accountability.
Dr. Patricia Okiria Achan emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity in public service and urged government institutions to adhere to anti-corruption measures.
“Forgery of academic documents undermines the credibility of our public service and erodes public trust. We must act decisively to ensure that only qualified and honest individuals serve in positions of responsibility,” she stated.
The Deputy IGG’s recommendation for Okidi’s dismissal is part of a broader effort to combat corruption and promote transparency in government operations. The IGG’s visit to the Lango Sub-region is part of a nationwide campaign to mainstream accountability in public projects and programs.
The case of Okidi underscores the need for rigorous verification of academic credentials and stricter enforcement of anti-corruption policies.
It also serves as a reminder to public officials that fraudulent practices will not be tolerated. It is anticipated that the IGG’s action will establish a standard that other districts will adhere to, guaranteeing that only competent people are given public office.
The IGG has forwarded its findings and recommendations to the relevant authorities for immediate action. Kole District officials are expected to implement the dismissal and initiate measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The district’s handling of this case and its commitment to re-establishing public confidence in its management will be closely watched by the public.
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