URA chief puts corrupt staff on notice

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KAMPALA - The trumpets of victory rang out at the Nakawa-based Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) headquarters in Kampala on Saturday (September 5, 2024) to thank and reflect on God’s goodness since the year began.

During this time, however, URA commissioner general John Musinguzi used the occasion to rally corrupt staff to repent or be dismissed.

“If you are corrupt, we will send you home without compromise. If you are Zaccheous, repent and leave this place when you are a Mathew,” he said, adding: “Sometimes we are stoned, beaten and hated because of the work we do. This is a job that attracts a lot of enemies. We soldier on every day irrespective of the risks the field presents us. For this, I want to thank the Lord that has sustained us all the way."

He stressed God’s grace in every aspect of URA’s operations and commended his staff for their devotion to the service of the country, even when at times, the conditions may not be favourable.

Better things lie ahead

Chief celebrant and Archbishop of the Church of Uganda Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, expressed gratitude to the URA administration for designating a special day to thank the Lord for his goodness and guidance.

“There’s a lot of grumbling in the world, but there’s little gratitude. It’s important that we thank God for his goodness despite the prevailing circumstances,” Kaziimba said.

Kaziimba encouraged the team to build on their successes, and most importantly, to set a forward-looking tone.

“Past victories may not sustain you forever, jubilate at them when you can, but know that better things lie ahead. It’s time to redraft and look to the future. The Lord that has enabled you to conquer in the past is the same God and is still with you, and has better plans to increase and prosper you ahead,” Kaziimba said.

Diligent and distinguished

State House Investors Protection Unit head Col.Edith Nakalema saluted Musinguzi for what she termed as diligent and distinguished service to the entity.

“He has been leading us since we were young. From the time he was young, he has always distinguished himself to be faithful and steadfast in everything he does. I'm not surprised at what he has been able to achieve and we know much more lies ahead,” Nakalema said.

Nakalema formerly served at URA in its inaugural days in the office of the commissioner general.

Leading the dedication of URA’s leaders, Pastor Robert Kayanja, the lead pastor at Miracle Centre Cathedral, urged URA to create an enabling environment for the mushrooming of wealth creators, who in turn, will create wealth in the country.

Kampala Capital City Traders Association (KACITA) chief executive officer Abel Mwesigye commended URA for their efforts to modernize the country’s tax administration.

He also pledged the association's support and cooperation to compliance.

22 years of fellowship

The URA Christian Fellowship was animated at the event. Diana Kisaka, who leads the URA Christian Fellowship, shared the origins of the fellowship.

“Around 22 years ago, a small group of courageous men and women came together, driven by a desire to seek the Lord's guidance and blessings for URA. Today, we honour their vision and commitment as we stand on their shoulders, celebrating not only the fellowship's growth but also over 33 years of URA's steadfast service,” she said.