By Jumah Kakomo
The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has issued a strong statement asserting that civil servants must remain above partisan politics to effectively implement government programs and policies.
This position comes in light of recent remarks by government ministers, urging civil servants to actively support the National Resistance Movement (NRM) or resign from their positions.
During a training session for over 160 Microfinance Support Center staff at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, Minister of State for Microfinance Hon. Kyeyune Haruna Kasolo and Minister of General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister Hon. Kasule Lumumba emphasized that civil servants should align themselves with the NRM, citing the need for a united front in executing the NRM Manifesto.
In response, UPC spokesperson Arach Oyat Sharon condemned these statements, stating that they undermine the foundational principles of public service.
“Civil servants are essential for the successful running of government programs, requiring focus free from political bias or victimization,” she asserted.
Oyat pointed out that pressuring civil servants to engage in partisan politics especially close to election cycles jeopardizes the integrity and efficacy of public service.
She referenced the advice of UPC’s founding father, H.E. Dr. Apolo Milton Obote, who emphasized the importance of cooperation between politicians and civil servants for government success.
Muzeyi Faizo, the UPC Head of Media and communication highlighted the need to draw a clear line between public service duties and political campaigning, noting that the Political Parties and Organizations Act prohibits certain groups, including civil servants, from engaging in active politics without resigning first.
“The statements made by the two Ministers are against the standing orders of public service and should not be tolerated,” Muzeyi Faizo stated, urging the government to respect the professionalism of civil servants and allow them to focus on their essential roles.
UPC called for unwavering support for public servants, recognizing them as the backbone of effective governance from local to national levels.
