news 5 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Inspectorate of Government Recovers Shs41.9 Billion, Warns Against Whistleblower Victimization

The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has announced the recovery of Shs41.9 billion and the ordering of Shs2.4 billion in employment benefits during the 2025/2026 financial year. The IGG also issued a stern warning against public institutions that victimize individuals who report corruption and administrative injustices. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ig-recovers-shs41-9b-warns-against-victimising-whistleblowers-5620632

The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has reported a significant financial recovery, securing Shs41.9 billion in ombudsman-related cases in the 2025/2026 financial year. Additionally, the office ordered the payment of Shs2.4 billion in outstanding employment benefits.

During a media briefing, Inspector General of Government (IGG) Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala emphasized the critical issue of whistleblower victimisation within public institutions. She stated that such actions not only infringe upon constitutional rights but also undermine the rule of law, hindering Uganda’s progress.

Justice Batala highlighted that the IG resolved approximately 1,011 ombudsman cases across central and local government entities. A substantial 37 percent of these concluded investigations were directly related to ombudsman functions. “We experience victimisation of whistleblowers by their superiors where people report to IGG, and they are eventually victimised by their institutions,” she stated.

Common grievances addressed by the IG include delays and irregularities in employment benefits, such as the non-payment or incorrect calculation of salaries, pensions, and gratuities. The IGG assured that the Inspectorate remains committed to ensuring citizen grievances are addressed, regardless of bureaucratic complexities or a citizen’s financial standing.

Despite these efforts, whistleblower Denis Yubu raised concerns about the pace of feedback from the IG, arguing that delays erode confidence and potentially put whistleblowers at risk. He questioned the timelines for handling high-profile corruption allegations and called for mandatory protections for whistleblowers, advocating for them to be viewed as partners in promoting transparency rather than adversaries.

The IGG also urged regional IG offices, Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), District Chairpersons, and Mayors to conduct regular spot-checks on public service delivery points to enhance efficiency. This comes as Uganda prepares to observe International Ombuds Day on October 8th.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ig-recovers-shs41-9b-warns-against-victimising-whistleblowers-5620632