The Ugandan government has taken decisive steps to combat corruption in local government processes. In a letter dated September 20, 2024, the Ministry of Local Government writing to all Chief Administrative Officers, Town Clerks – City Councils, and Town Clerks – Municipal Councils, outlined measures to tackle corruption.
Corruption in local government processes has long plagued Uganda, undermining the effectiveness of District/City Service Commissions and contradicting the principles of decentralised governance. Despite previous efforts, it should be noted that corruption remains a major obstacle, denying deserving Ugandans opportunities and compromising public trust.
In a letter dated August 22, 2024 (HRM/77/147/01), the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya instructed local governments to take disciplinary action against Parish Chiefs, Town Agents, and public servants involved in extortion and bribery in the disbursement of PDM funds.
“Local governments are required to take disciplinary action against Parish Chiefs, Town Agents, and public servants involved in extortion and bribery in the disbursement of PDM funds. Monthly reports on handled cases and court processes will ensure accountability,” Kumumanya wrote.
To address corruption, the Ministry has also outlined several measures, effective immediately:
1. Removal of Non-Performing Officials: District Chairpersons and City Mayors must initiate removal proceedings against District/City Service Commission members who fail to deliver.
2. Sanctions for Technical Officers: Those involved in malpractices will face sanctions under Uganda Public Standing Orders and other regulations.
3. Monthly Reporting: Local governments must submit reports on recruitment processes to enable timely interventions.
4. Corruption-Free Statements: All job advertisements must include a statement condemning corruption and encouraging whistleblowing.
Implementing the above measures will require sustained commitment and coordination among local governments, anti-corruption agencies, and civil society organisations. Effective communication and citizen engagement will be crucial in promoting transparency and accountability.
Uganda’s anti-corruption efforts align with international commitments, such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). The Inspectorate of Government, with support from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit (SH-ACU), established in 2018 by H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has also been working towards a corruption-free Uganda.
To further strengthen anti-corruption efforts, I strongly recommend enhanced citizen participation and feedback mechanisms. This includes strengthening collaboration between citizens, anti-corruption agencies, and local governments. Mandatory ideological courses for new entrants and capacity-building programs for all local government officials, backed by robust monitoring and evaluation frameworks, are also suggested.
It is important to note that the Ugandan government has a clear attitude on corruption: zero tolerance. The government’s goal in implementing the measures against corruption mentioned earlier is to restore integrity to local government processes while promoting good governance and public trust in the government services.
As I conclude my writeup, I like to commend the National Resistance Movement Government for its unwavering commitment to combating corruption. I believe that with these new standards in place, Uganda is making significant strides towards more transparency and accountability in local government systems and that as the government deals with the challenges of corruption in the local government, it is also used as a model for other sectors.
Male Solomon Grace
BPAM, MRPP (UCU); Cert. IAB Europe
The author is Communications Officer at the Government Citizen Interaction Centre at State House – Uganda
