Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister of Information and National Guidance, says a thorough examination needs to be done to assess the viability of removing certain ministries as part of the ongoing effort to streamline government agencies.
This proposal follows the World Bank’s decision to suspend funding due to the recently enacted anti-homosexuality law. The government is sourcing for potential means to reduce government expenditure.
The Minister underlined the importance of conducting a meticulous evaluation before contemplating the elimination of ministries.
He clarified that the government’s structure involves ministers overseeing specific domains, and any hasty removal could disrupt the provision of vital services to the public.
Minister Baryomunsi emphasized, “The removal of ministries necessitates a comprehensive study to prevent impulsive decisions. For instance, the government’s structure and ministers’ roles are interlinked with the activities they supervise. Therefore, it’s not a simple matter to abruptly abolish the Ministry of Health or Education without potentially compromising the services under their jurisdiction.”
The World Bank has halted new financing to Uganda over the anti-LGBTQ law that among other things posses the death penalties for those found guilty of aggravated defilement .
The World Bank said in a statement on August 08 that the law contradicted its values and it would suspend new funding until it could test measures to prevent discrimination in projects it finances.
“We believe our vision to eradicate poverty on a livable planet can only succeed if it includes everyone irrespective of race, gender, or sexuality. This law undermines those efforts. Inclusion and non-discrimination sit at the heart of our work around the world,” it said in a statement.
Members of the public, political leaders ,academic experts among others have questioned the role of the World Bank after its decision to halt new loans to Uganda.
In a twistn of events, some members of the gay community in Uganda say aid cuts would not only create more backlash for the gay community but also affect all Ugandans including the gay community itself.
In a separate context, President Yoweri Museveni has criticized the World Bank’s decision to suspend new funding to Uganda in response to the recently passed anti-LGBTQ legislation.
Museveni regarded this action as “provocation and arrogance” intended to intimidate Uganda. He expressed his frustration with what he perceived as attempts to use money to manipulate Uganda’s policies.
Museveni denounced these actions, stating, “It is unfortunate that the World Bank and other actors are attempting to coerce us into relinquishing our faith, culture, principles, and sovereignty by leveraging money.” He asserted that Uganda possesses the capacity to progress independently.
However, Museveni indicated ongoing discussions with the World Bank to potentially avert this situation, demonstrating a willingness to explore diplomatic solutions.
The World Bank has an existing portfolio of $5.2bn in Uganda, and these projects will not be affected.