Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has strongly condemned recent remarks by two government ministers, urging civil servants to support the National Resistance Movement (NRM) or resign.
Ministers Hon. Kyeyune Haruna Kasolo and Hon. Kasule Lumumba made the controversial remarks during a training session for Microfinance Support Center staff in Kyankwanzi District.
According to Sharon Oyat Arach UPC spokesperson, the statements by the two government ministers contradict with the standing orders of public service and have no effect. “UPC condemns the tendency of threatening and intimidating civil servants. We need to draw a line between working for the Government and active campaigns for a Political Party.” She stated
Arach also emphasized that ministers have to be aware of the key clauses in the Political Parties and Organisations Act which forbids police, army, public officers, traditional/cultural leaders from participating in politics. “There is a procedure of first resigning and then go into active partisan politics.” She clarified
She further called on the government to fully support the public servants across the country, noting that they are the driving forces for all government programs, projects and policies right from the lower to the National levels.
At the same juncture, Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) also commended President Yoweri Museveni for dismissing three top Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) officials over the Kiteezi landfill disaster that claimed several lives.
The President invoked his constitutional authority under Article 172 (1) (a) of the 1995 Constitution to remove the officials from their positions that included the Executive Director of KCCA Dorothy Kisaka, her deputy Engineer David Luyimbazi and the Director of Public Health Dr. Daniel Okello.
Responding to the President’s decision, Arach praised the President’s decisive action, saying it sets a precedent for accountability among government officials.
“As UPC we are looking at accountability for the services we pay for at the end of the day, which is yes. If having these people fired, there will be a vetting process to see who qualifies to carry on the job than the predecessor. We care about service delivery, justice for the people that lost their lives and property.” Arach highlighted
“If these are the people held responsible they should be brought to book and justice be served. That’s our core role as Uganda People’s Congress.” She added
The Kiteezi landfill tragedy sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for action against those responsible. UPC’s endorsement of the President’s decision reflects growing public demand for accountability within government ranks.