Minister Babalanda Urges Local Leaders to Combat Corruption Enablers

Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, has issued a strong call to action for local government leaders and public servants across Uganda. Speaking on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni, she urged them to actively identify and dismantle the factors that fuel corruption, a vice that continues to hinder service delivery and impede the nation’s progress.

Babalanda acknowledged the efforts of dedicated public servants who ensure government programs reach their intended beneficiaries. However, she stressed that corruption remains a significant barrier to national advancement, robbing citizens of essential services and opportunities for a better life.

“Corruption robs children of quality education, patients of healthcare, and farmers of government support,” Babalanda stated. “It leaves communities without clean water, good roads and other basic services.”

Investigations have pointed to weak independent oversight among public officials as a key contributor to corruption within local governments. The Minister explained that when institutions fail to hold each other accountable, corruption flourishes, eroding public trust in governmental systems.

Furthermore, Babalanda identified deficiencies in the public procurement process as a major avenue for corrupt practices. She noted that irregular procurement often leads to payments for non-existent or substandard projects, the concealment of poor-quality work, falsified reports, and misrepresentations of program progress.

“Many roads, classrooms, markets and other public facilities remain incomplete even after contractors were paid in full, leaving citizens without the services they deserve,” she added.

The Minister concluded by urging local leaders to reinforce accountability measures, rigorously enforce procurement laws, and take their oversight duties with utmost seriousness. She emphasized that enhanced supervision and transparency are crucial for the effective utilization of public resources and for ensuring that government programs truly benefit all Ugandans.

Source: Nile Post