Sarah Atim, the Chairperson of Ipito Aweno Parish Development Model (PDM) SACCO in Lira, has been sentenced to nearly two years in prison after being convicted of fraud involving misappropriated PDM funds.
Atim was found guilty by the Lira Chief Magistrates Court of deceiving thousands of PDM beneficiaries, promising them quick access to government funds in exchange for illegal payments. In her role as Chairperson, Atim manipulated her position to extort money from vulnerable members of PDM groups in the Lira City West Division.
Investigations revealed that Atim falsely claimed to be overseeing the online registration process necessary for the disbursement of PDM funds, despite lacking any authority to do so. She exploited her influence to solicit payments from group leaders, convincing them that these fees were necessary for processing their funds.
The case began in June 2024, when several PDM groups in Lira District raised concerns about irregularities in the fund distribution process. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit, along with the Criminal Investigations Directorate and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, launched an investigation that led to Atim’s arrest.
On June 10, 2024, Atim was charged with Obtaining Money by False Pretense and was remanded into custody. During the trial, evidence revealed that Atim had orchestrated a deliberate scheme to defraud SACCO members, undermining the integrity of a government initiative meant to support impoverished communities.
In delivering the sentence, the Chief Magistrate emphasized the severe impact of Atim’s actions, which not only betrayed public trust but also hindered the effectiveness of the PDM program. Atim will serve her sentence at Lira Government Prison.
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