President Museveni directs UCAA to dismiss unqualified staff

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has directed the Ministry of Works and Transport to take immediate action against corruption within the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). This follows findings that 152 staff members were recruited without meeting the necessary qualifications.

Concerns over recruitment irregularities

In a letter addressed to Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, the president expressed concern over what he described as “massive corruption” in the recruitment processes at UCAA. According to the letter, the hiring of unqualified individuals has contributed to inefficiencies in the agency’s operations.

Incident highlights operational challenges

The president referenced a recent incident involving Maama Maria Nyerere, who was stuck in an old elevator at Entebbe International Airport for several minutes. He cited this as an example of the system’s shortcomings resulting from poor staffing decisions.

Call for disciplinary measures

President Museveni noted that a preliminary investigation had identified 152 employees who did not meet the job requirements. He instructed that all individuals hired irregularly be dismissed and that those responsible for their recruitment be held accountable.

“I demand immediate action,” he wrote, emphasizing the need to address the matter without delay.

Next steps for UCAA

The directive is expected to lead to internal reviews within UCAA to ensure recruitment procedures align with public service standards. The Ministry of Works and Transport has not yet issued a formal response, but action is anticipated in the coming days.