Balaam Warns Public Servants Against Contesting LC Elections Without Resigning

What the report says

Nile Post reports that Uganda’s Ministry of Local Government has warned public servants not to contest in the ongoing Local Council elections unless they have first resigned from government service. The caution was issued as campaigning continues ahead of the July 28 Local Council I and II polls, after nominations were completed and candidates began seeking support at village level.

According to the report, Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi said in a July 22 statement that the ministry had received information that teachers, health workers, administrative personnel, extension workers and other government employees were taking part in the elections while still holding public offices. He said public officers are expected to remain politically neutral and should not engage in partisan political activity while in service.

The ministry cited Article 176 of the Constitution, Public Service Standing Orders, 2021, and Section 129(5) of the Local Governments Act. Nile Post reports that the law requires a public officer intending to run for a local council position to resign at least 30 days before nomination day, using the prescribed public service procedures. The ministry said the rule is intended to protect the neutrality, integrity and professionalism of the public service.

The warning could affect already nominated candidates if any are found to have remained in public employment while campaigning. The July 28 elections are expected to choose LC I chairpersons, village committees and LC II leaders, positions that form part of Uganda’s grassroots local government structure.