Whistleblowers are Vital to Exposing Corruption, Says Minister Nameere

State Minister for Local Government Justine Nameere has called upon all Ugandans to actively report instances of corruption and poor service delivery. She stressed that whistleblowers are a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to enhance accountability within local government structures.

Minister Nameere believes that public involvement is indispensable in unearthing corruption, as citizens are often the first to witness and experience shortcomings in government services. The ministry is reportedly working closely with communities to monitor public projects and identify officials who are not fulfilling their duties.

“The President’s idea of having public money accounted for publicly by the owners of that money, which are the people, was brilliant,” Nameere stated. She revealed that reports from whistleblowers have been instrumental in uncovering numerous corruption cases across the country, including some that had previously stalled in institutions like the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) and the courts.

During her ministry’s inspection tours, Nameere noted that they receive detailed complaints from the public regarding suspected misuse of public funds. She also alleged that some corrupt officials attempt to pre-empt accountability by preparing bribes for auditors and investigators before inspections even commence. “The corrupt prepare budgets for whoever has to audit them. They prepare money for different offices before inspectors even arrive,” she claimed, warning that anyone attempting to bribe inspectors would face arrest.

Nameere cited an instance where a suspect was apprehended for allegedly preparing Shs250 million intended for State Minister for Youth and Children, Balaam Barugahara, during an inspection. She reiterated the ministry’s firm stance against accepting financial inducements among its inspection teams.

The minister defended the ministry’s intensive field inspections, asserting that they have exposed significant weaknesses in supervision across local governments, which have allowed corruption and non-performance to thrive. She exemplified this with an intervention in Greater Masaka where electricity transformers had been left unrepaired for weeks, warning UEDCL officials of arrests if power was not restored promptly. The repairs were subsequently made, demonstrating the impact of stricter oversight.

Furthermore, Nameere dismissed the idea of a less stringent approach when dealing with negligent public servants, arguing that excessive bureaucracy and lengthy negotiations often delay necessary actions, leaving citizens to suffer. She urged that the needs of ordinary Ugandans, especially small business owners reliant on consistent public services, must be prioritized. “Many Ugandans depend on daily income. Delays in service delivery can push businesses towards collapse,” she warned.

Minister Nameere concluded by asserting that the government’s public accountability drive aims to protect taxpayers and ensure that government systems effectively serve the citizens, rather than engaging in private negotiations with suspected offenders.

Source: Nile Post