KAMPALA, Uganda — Local Government Minister Justine Nameere has publicly backed Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s hardline position on corruption, saying Uganda requires firm and uncompromising action to confront one of its most persistent governance challenges.
Speaking amid renewed national debate over accountability and public sector integrity, Nameere said efforts to combat corruption should be supported regardless of the individual leading them.
“Corruption must stop. That is why, for me, I do not care how tough Gen. Muhoozi is on corruption. I support him,” she said.
Her remarks place her among a growing number of government figures calling for stronger measures against corruption at a time when public concern over the misuse of public resources remains high.
Corruption has consistently ranked among Uganda’s most pressing governance challenges, with watchdog agencies, civil society organisations and development partners repeatedly warning that graft continues to undermine public service delivery and economic development.
Over the years, high-profile investigations have exposed allegations involving public procurement, misuse of government funds, payroll fraud and abuse of office across different sectors.
Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index has frequently highlighted concerns about public sector accountability in Uganda, while domestic anti-corruption agencies continue to investigate cases involving government officials and public institutions.
Analysts argue that corruption not only drains public resources but also weakens public trust in state institutions and slows the delivery of essential services such as healthcare, education and infrastructure.
The minister argued that anti-corruption efforts should not be viewed through a political lens.
According to Nameere, what matters is whether the measures being proposed or implemented can reduce the scale of corruption and improve accountability.
“The fight against corruption should be judged by results,” she said, suggesting that Uganda’s long-term development depends on reducing the losses associated with graft.
Her comments come as debates continue over how best to strengthen oversight institutions, improve transparency and ensure public officials are held accountable for the management of state resources.
Governance experts have long argued that effective anti-corruption efforts require a combination of political will, independent institutions, stronger enforcement mechanisms and public participation.
Gen Muhoozi’s anti-corruption rhetoric
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has in recent years increasingly commented on governance and accountability issues, including corruption.
His statements have often attracted public attention and sparked debate about the need for stronger action against individuals accused of abusing public office.
Supporters of a tougher anti-corruption approach argue that Uganda has spent decades discussing the problem without making sufficient progress in eliminating it.
Critics, however, maintain that anti-corruption campaigns must be accompanied by consistent enforcement of the law and institutional reforms to ensure accountability applies equally to all individuals, regardless of status or political affiliation.
From media personality to Cabinet minister
Before joining government, Justine Nameere built a public profile through her work in the media industry, where she was known as a journalist, broadcaster and commentator on social and political affairs.
Her transition from media into public service placed her in positions that involve direct engagement with governance and public administration issues.
As Minister of Local Government, Nameere oversees a ministry responsible for coordinating district and municipal administrations across the country.
Local governments play a central role in implementing government programmes and delivering services directly to communities, making accountability and financial management key components of their operations.
Accountability at local government level
The Local Government Ministry is responsible for supervising local authorities that manage significant public resources through district, city and municipal budgets.
Experts note that strengthening accountability within local government structures is critical because these institutions are often the primary point of interaction between citizens and government services.
Nameere said ensuring transparency and proper use of public resources at all levels remains essential if Ugandans are to benefit fully from government programmes.
Her remarks align with broader government efforts aimed at improving public sector efficiency and restoring confidence in public institutions.
Debate likely to continue
While there is broad consensus that corruption remains a major obstacle to development, opinions continue to differ on the methods required to address it effectively.
Some observers argue that stronger punitive measures are necessary to deter public officials from engaging in corrupt practices.
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Others contend that institutional reforms, transparency mechanisms and greater citizen oversight are equally important in preventing corruption before it occurs.
What remains largely undisputed is the scale of the challenge.
As Uganda continues to pursue economic growth and public sector reforms, the debate over how to confront corruption is likely to remain central to national political and governance discussions.
Nameere’s endorsement of Gen Muhoozi’s tough position adds another voice to that conversation and highlights the growing pressure for more visible action against corruption within public institutions.
