In commemoration of World Ombudsman Day, the Inspector General of Government (IGG), Beti Olive Kamya, has lauded the strides made by the Inspectorate of Government (IG) in ensuring accountability and improved service delivery across Uganda.
Reflecting on the achievements of the last financial year (2023/2024), IG Kamya revealed that the IG successfully resolved a total of 636 Ombudsman cases in Ministries, Departments, Agencies, and Local Governments (MDALGs).
Kamya highlighted that of the 636 cases, 135 were resolved in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), while 501 cases were settled at the local government level. The Inspectorate also facilitated 75 boardroom sessions in various MDALGs, which allowed for efficient resolution of community service delivery issues. Additionally, 22 cases were settled through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), and 10 system reviews were conducted to further streamline operations.
A notable achievement was the payout of UGX 9.863 billion to individuals who had been wrongfully denied employment benefits, such as unpaid salaries, pensions, and gratuities. This intervention marks a significant step toward restoring justice and financial fairness for aggrieved citizens.
Kamya called upon all citizens to actively report instances of mismanagement and violations of the rule of law, stressing that such malpractices often pave the way for corruption. She reiterated the IG’s commitment to holding public officials accountable, particularly those at the highest levels who misuse their authority to deny citizens their rightful dues.
“Let us all join hands in fighting corruption by reporting it to our offices,” Kamya urged, reinforcing the IG’s open-door policy in addressing cases of delayed or mismanaged services.
Kamya called for increased public vigilance and reporting of corruption, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in combating the vice. The IG office remains open to all citizens seeking redress.
This year’s theme, “Here to Hear You,” highlights the need for better public awareness regarding the critical role the ombudsman plays in addressing administrative failures and mediating between government and citizens.
The day, which is observed every second October globally, aims to promote the functions of the ombudsman, which are rooted in ensuring strict adherence to the rule of law and the principles of natural justice.
Kamya emphasized that the ombudsman’s office, mandated under the Constitution of Uganda and the IG Act, is a pivotal tool for eliminating corruption, abuse of authority, and ensuring public office accountability.
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