Luuka District Service Commission Boss Faces Corruption Allegations

The first allegation involves a deliberate delay in signing commission meeting minutes to favour a specific candidate for the Senior Clinical Officer position, despite another candidate being deemed suitable by the commission.
The Chairperson of the Luuka District Service Commission, Paul Isabirye, has been given a seven-day ultimatum by the LCV Chairperson, Simon Wakaze, to respond to allegations of corruption and abuse of office.
In a letter dated January 6, 2025, Wakaze outlined three serious accusations against Mr. Isabirye, questioning his integrity and suitability for the role.
The first allegation involves a deliberate delay in signing commission meeting minutes to favour a specific candidate for the Senior Clinical Officer position, despite another candidate being deemed suitable by the commission.
The second accusation claims Mr. Isabirye solicited and received UGX 17 million from Ms. Baisemubaka Sylvia to facilitate her promotion to the same position.
In the third instance, Mr. Isabirye reportedly appeared before the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at Central Police Kiyunga on January 3, 2025, to address charges related to his conduct as Chairperson.
Mr. Wakaze emphasized in his letter that these allegations, if proven, raise serious concerns about Mr. Isabirye’s character and ability to lead. He has demanded a formal response by January 13, 2025, in accordance with principles of natural justice.
“In line with the principles of natural justice, you are required to defend yourself against these allegations within seven days and, in any case, no later than January 13, 2025,” Mr. Wakaze stated.
Speaking to Nile Post, Wakaze noted that this is not the first time the Luuka District Service Commission has faced bribery allegations.
“I am calling upon the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to intervene in this matter as they have the expertise and capacity to investigate such cases thoroughly,” Wakaze said.
He added that his attempts to meet Mr. Isabirye informally had failed. “I tried to call him to my office, but he did not honor my invite. That is why I have resorted to formal communication.”
Wakaze also urged candidates seeking employment in Luuka District to refrain from offering bribes to commissioners.
The letter has been copied to key district authorities, including the Resident District Commissioner, Chief Administrative Officer, and District Speaker, underlining the seriousness of the matter.
The incident has raised widespread concern over governance and accountability in Luuka District, with residents and stakeholders accusing the District Service Commission of prioritizing bribes over merit.
Efforts to reach Mr. Isabirye for comment were unsuccessful as he did not respond to repeated calls.
As the situation unfolds, the allegations have brought ethical leadership and transparency within Luuka District’s administrative structures into sharp focus.