Inspectorate of Government recovers sh13b for unpaid public servants

KAMPALA - The Inspectorate of Government (IG) has recovered shillings 13 billion for public officers who had lodged complaints over non-payment of salaries, pensions, gratuities and other employment-related benefits.

The recoveries were made by the IG’s Ombudsman office in the financial year 2024/2025.

In a statement dated October 10, 2025, the IG’s Ombudsman office stated that it also resolved 673 cases in ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) and 135 cases in local governments (LGs).

The office also undertook 27 systemic interventions across MDAs and LGs to address administrative weaknesses and enhance service delivery.

“We urge all citizens to demand improved public service delivery and to report any form of administrative injustice to the IG,” Farouk Kayondo, the supervisor of strategic partnerships and public relations Inspectorate of Government (IGG) Office, said.

By executing its Ombuds function, the IG ensures efficient and effective public administration, benefiting the citizens.

Effective execution of the Ombudsman’s mandate significantly reduces corruption and promotes a just, accountable, and corruption-free Uganda.

Common Ombudsman complaints include non-payment, overpayment and irregular or delayed payment of employment benefits such as salaries, gratuities, and pensions.

Additionally, delays in service delivery are reported, including the issuance of operational licenses, passports, national identity cards, driving permits, land titles, academic documents, and access to payroll.

Other complaints involve irregular recruitment of public officers, delayed confirmations, malicious interdictions, and workplace victimisation arising from employees who raise complaints against their institutions or superiors.

Additional cases include employment disputes and abuse of authority, such as the use of public property or officials for personal gain.

IG addresses Ombudsman complaints through Alternative Dispute Resolution, spot checks, investigations, referrals to relevant authorities, systemic reviews, public sensitisation, and the issuance of recommendations and orders to ensure corrective action, accountability, and improved service delivery.

Under the Policy and Systems Studies, the National Ombudsman examines existing systems, policies, and procedures, and advises the Government on measures to strengthen internal controls. 

It also establishes Sectoral Ombudsman Units in priority sectors and guides institutions on how to resolve Ombudsman cases through their internal grievance-handling mechanism.