The NRM government has announced a renewed commitment to combating corruption within the civil service by emphasizing merit-based appointments and competitive examinations conducted by the Public Service Commission.
In a recent address, President Yoweri Museveni highlighted that for a long time, the administration trusted that capable individuals were prudently handling finances, personnel, and procurement. However, it has become evident that many officials have failed in their duties.
To address this betrayal, the government plans to collaborate with both victims of corruption and patriotic citizens to eradicate this menace, Museveni said.
The government acknowledges that this approach has had mixed results and calls for a thorough examination and discussion.
Despite this, the President remains optimistic that corruption can be crushed through an alliance of patriots, including political leaders, certain public servants, church members, and the masses. These masses, often encountered in village barazas, are seen as crucial allies in the fight against corruption.
Corruption is estimated to divert approximately UGX 10 trillion annually, significantly hindering the country’s development. Additionally, there are signs of massive tax evasion. With Uganda’s GDP at $55 billion, the expected tax revenue should be around 20%, or $11 billion (UGX 48 trillion).
In contrast, the real budget, excluding debt payments, is UGX 56 trillion, indicating significant losses due to corruption and tax evasion.
Museveni emphasized that those engaging in corruption and tax evasion are detrimental parasites and saboteurs of Uganda’s development. The goal, he said, is to eliminate these elements to accelerate economic growth. Despite these challenges, the economy grew by 6% this year, and it is projected to grow in double digits if efforts to stamp out corruption and indiscipline succeed.
