Nabbanja: Let’s pay whistle-blowers 

In a significant development following the launch of the Ombudsman Complaint Handling Manual on World Ombudsman day, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has proposed amendments to the Whistleblowers Act.

Nabbanja recommends an amendment to the Whistle-Blowers Act that would offer a reward for individuals who disclose information that helps prevent the embezzlement of public funds. This proposal aims to further incentivize whistle-blowers and enhance government accountability.

The announcement was made during an event at Mestil hotel in Kampala on October 12, 2023, where various government officials gathered to commemorate the occasion. The event’s theme, “Raising Citizens’ Awareness of the Ombudsman’s Role for Improved Service Delivery,” emphasized the importance of enhancing public understanding of the ombudsman’s function in improving services.

The gathering was attended by notable figures including Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Inspector General of Government Beti Kamaya, Deputy IGG Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe, Minister of Ethics and Integrity Rose Lilly Akello, Minister of Public Service Muruli Wilson Mukasa, and Justice of the Court of Appeal Geoffrey Kiryabwire.

In Uganda, the inspector general of government serves as the national ombudsman, responsible for ensuring access to quality public services, overseeing adherence to rules and procedures by public officers, and resolving conflicts between citizens and public institutions.

This role includes addressing complaints from both citizens and public officers. In her address, Inspector General of Government Beti Kamaya underscored the need for collective action against corruption, stating, “We must stand together if we are to win the war against corruption.”

Kamaya also emphasized the importance of involving the public service in developing effective strategies to combat corruption. Deputy IGG Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe encouraged public officers to act as pillars of hope, acknowledging challenges such as limited operational funds and difficulties in gathering evidence for past cases.

State Minister of Ethics and Integrity Rose Lilly Akello highlighted the importance of ombudsmen as independent state officials who investigate citizen complaints against government institutions. She praised the cost-effectiveness of this alternative conflict resolution method.

Minister of Public Service Muruli Mukasa expressed support for the Inspectorate’s anti-corruption efforts, declaring, “As long as the IGG is leading the charge against corruption, we are ready as men and women to join the fight.”

Justice Geoffrey Kiryabwire of the Court of Appeal urged the inspector general of government to consider alternative dispute resolution methods to alleviate case backlogs, suggesting citizen involvement as a more cost-effective and mutually beneficial solution.

The event marked a significant milestone in Uganda’s commitment to improving service delivery and combating corruption, with key government figures pledging their support.

The proposed amendment to the Whistle-Blowers Act could potentially encourage more individuals to come forward and contribute to the fight against corruption in Uganda.