The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Betty Kamya, has called on Ugandans to stand up to arrogant government employees who mistreat them while seeking public services. Kamya encouraged citizens not to be intimidated and to respond assertively when treated poorly by public servants.
Speaking to reporters during Uganda’s commemoration of International Ombuds Day, Ms. Kamya stated that the time has come for Ugandans to stop tolerating mistreatment from government employees.
“There is this useless fear that government employees have instilled in Ugandans, making them feel like they are the bosses. But in reality, it’s the Ugandans who are the bosses, as public servants are paid using taxpayers’ money. This must stop immediately,” Kamya said.
She added, “If they shout at you, shout back. If they slap you, report them to me, and I will ensure that officer is dealt with and made an example of. It’s unacceptable for someone to travel long distances to access services only to be treated with disrespect as if they’re being done a favor. This behavior will stop.”
According to the bi-annual Inspectorate of Government (IG) reports presented by Kamya to the Speaker of Parliament last week, delays in service delivery ranked as the third most reported ombudsman complaint in the previous financial year.
During the 2023/2024 financial year, the IG resolved 636 cases related to ombudsman complaints in Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Local Governments (MDALGs), including 135 cases in ministries and agencies, and 501 cases in local governments. The complaints ranged from workplace victimization, delayed service delivery, abuse of authority, non-payment of salaries and benefits, to employment disputes and management issues.
Kamya highlighted that Shs9.6 billion was paid to individual complainants in unpaid employment benefits.
“As we mark International Ombuds Day, we encourage all citizens to report any form of maladministration, administrative injustice, or corruption. Our headquarters at Plot 14 Jubilee Insurance Centre along Parliament Avenue, and our 16 regional offices, are open to receive complaints,” she said.
She emphasized the need for collective action in restoring administrative systems and the rule of law, aiming for a corruption-free Uganda.
