Tension flared in Parliament of Uganda as lawmakers on the Public Accounts Committee (Central Government) turned up the heat on officials from the Ministry of Public Service over shocking claims that active public servants participated in the just concluded 2026 General Elections.
Members of Parliament raised serious concerns that several government employees including teachers, headteachers, District Education Officers and Chief Administrative Officers allegedly took on roles as polling officials, presiding officers, or even engaged in partisan mobilisation during the elections.
Lawmakers questioned whether this conduct violated public service regulations that require civil servants to remain politically neutral while in active service.
The matter sparked sharp debate, with MPs demanding clarity on whether disciplinary action would be taken against those implicated.
Appearing before the committee on Monday, Permanent Secretary Catherine Bitarakwate said the Ministry had not formally received any official reports confirming the allegations.
She assured the legislators that the Ministry would consult further with the Attorney General to establish the legal position and prepare a comprehensive response.
“We have not formally received such reports, but we will engage the Attorney General and present a formidable response on the matter,” Bitarakwate told the committee.
The committee is expected to follow up on the issue as Parliament intensifies oversight ahead of the post-election accountability process.
If confirmed, the involvement of active public servants in partisan electoral activities could trigger disciplinary measures and raise broader questions about compliance with public service conduct rules during national elections.
The spotlight is now firmly on the Ministry and the country awaits answers.
Stay tuned here as the drama unflods