PDM Leaders Ordered to Resign if Running for Office
Parish Development Model Leaders Told to Quit If Entering Politics: Integrity vs. Ambition
Apac Uganda. What Happened
In Apac Municipality, the Town Clerk Paul Muboki has issued a directive ordering all leaders of the Parish Development Model (PDM) who have declared political ambitions to resign from their PDM posts, and hand over any government-issued equipment. The PDM is Uganda’s flagship poverty alleviation programme.
The directive came during a public event where Muboki was presenting beekeeping equipment to farmers in over 30 groups. He said that people who are part of government programmes like PDM cannot at the same time use those roles as stepping stones for contesting political seats. Holding both roles, he said, is “double-dealing” and undermines service delivery.
Reactions & Controversy
The move has sparked controversy especially in wards like Atopi, Oyo, Central Ward Akere, where several PDM leaders have publicly declared their intention to contest seats in the 2026 elections. Some residents feel the directive unfairly punishes them for political participation.
Supporters of the Town Clerk’s directive argue that government programmes should remain apolitical and those benefiting or serving through them should not misuse them for partisan gain. Others say that PDM leaders should cleanly transition if entering electoral politics, to avoid conflict of interest or misuse of resources.
Political Context & Significance
With elections approaching in early 2026, contests over who can or cannot hold dual roles (government-appointed vs. political) are increasing. This incident touches on larger debates about fairness, public resources, and integrity.
The PDM is a high-visibility government programme. Leaders in PDM roles often have significant influence or access to resource distribution in their parishes. The concern is that someone running for political office might use that influence unfairly.
It also raises questions about local governance norms: what restrictions (if any) exist or should exist for holders of public-service roles or government programmes when they want to run for elective posts.
What to Watch
Whether this kind of directive spreads beyond Apac — whether other districts/town councils issue similar orders.
Legal or administrative responses: if there are challenges or clarifications from higher levels (Ministry of Local Government, Electoral Commission) about whether PDM roles are incompatible with political candidacy.
Impact on PDM operations: whether resignations lead to disruptions in service delivery or loss of institutional memory.
How this is framed by political opponents: whether this becomes a talking point for concerns about restricting political participation, especially at local levels.
