Kibuku MP Slams Intimidation in Anti-Corruption Operations
Kabweri County Member of Parliament Patrick Godfrey Wakida has formally challenged State Minister for Local Government Justine Nameere over the “Shame the Corrupt” operations in Kibuku District. In a letter dated August 16, 2026, Wakida alleged that anti-corruption arrests of health workers, teachers, and local leaders are being conducted through public humiliation and intimidation rather than lawful administrative procedures.
The dispute centers on a clash between high-visibility enforcement and the statutory protections afforded to public servants under Ugandan law. While Wakida states he supports the fight against the abuse of public resources, he argues the current methods in Kibuku create “administrative chaos” that threatens the delivery of essential services.
Allegations of Public Humiliation in Kibuku District
Wakida reported that the “Shame the Corrupt” campaign has bypassed established accountability mechanisms. The MP cited specific instances where health workers at various centers were publicly harassed and arrested in ways that he claims undermine the morale of frontline staff.
The crackdown extended beyond clinics. According to the letter, parish chiefs and local council leaders were summarily ordered to vacate their offices in public forums without due process. Wakida further alleged that teachers were arrested in what he described as a “dehumanising manner” in front of their students and community members.
“Corruption must be fought. But the fight against corruption cannot itself become a tool of intimidation, political showmanship and administrative chaos,” Wakida wrote.
Legal Frameworks vs. Populist Enforcement
Wakida noted that the Local Government Act and Public Service Standing Orders provide specific procedures for investigation, interdiction, and disciplinary action. He warned that ignoring these structures erodes institutional accountability.
By bypassing the statutory process, the MP argues the government is opting for “populism” over good governance. He suggested that the current tactics create a perception of selective enforcement, which may demoralize civil servants already operating under difficult conditions.
To resolve the crisis, Wakida proposed that all investigations be routed through established institutions, including:
- The Inspectorate of Government (IGG)
- The Uganda Police Force
- The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
- District Internal Security Officers (DISOs)
- District Service Commissions
The shift toward these bodies would ensure that accused persons are given an opportunity to be heard before sanctions are imposed, aligning the operation with the Inspectorate of Government’s mandate to combat corruption without violating human rights.
Risk to Essential Public Services
Wakida warned that the disruption of schools and health centers in the name of fighting corruption could leave citizens without critical care and education.
Wakida has called on Minister Nameere to desist from direct administrative actions that he believes usurp the mandate of statutory bodies. He has offered to meet with the minister and other stakeholders to coordinate a lawful and respectful approach to the anti-corruption drive.
The fight for transparency is necessary, but as Wakida notes, the method of delivery determines whether the result is systemic reform or institutional decay.