Gov’t Officials Urged to Enforce Zero-Tolerance to Corruption in Job Adverts — Kumumanya
By: Kyeyune Ali
Kampala — The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Mr. Ben Kumumanya, has called on government officials to strictly uphold integrity and professionalism in the recruitment of public servants, emphasizing the need to eliminate corruption and manipulation in job advertising and hiring processes.
Speaking during a retreat organized by the Ministry of Local Government at Imperial Royale Hotel, Kampala, on Wednesday, Mr. Kumumanya urged Heads of Human Resource Departments and Secretaries to District Service Commissions to adopt transparent recruitment practices that restore public confidence in government institutions.
He commended Masaka District for setting a good example by including a clear disclaimer in its job adverts stating that “jobs are not for sale” and warning applicants against paying money in exchange for employment. Mr. Kumumanya directed all Local Governments across the country to emulate the same approach, saying such measures would help combat bribery and promote merit-based recruitment.
“We must make it clear that no one should pay to get a public job. Any act of bribery undermines public trust and damages the reputation of government institutions,” Kumumanya said.
He warned officials against engaging in corrupt practices such as demanding money for job placements or manipulating recruitment outcomes, stressing that public officers serve in trust for the people of Uganda.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening the capacity of human resource officers and service commissions, noting that building skills and fostering teamwork are essential for effective service delivery.
“The Ministry will continue to support and train officers to ensure recruitment is fair, transparent, and free from corruption,” he added.
The retreat aimed to discuss new strategies to curb corruption and enhance accountability within district administrations, aligning with the NRM government’s pledge to eradicate corruption — one of the eight key priorities for the current term.
Mr. Kumumanya reiterated that the Ministry of Local Government maintains a zero-tolerance policy on corruption, urging all public servants to remain principled and to serve Ugandans with honesty and dedication.