By Aaron Okotel
MBALE CITY
Mbale City authorities have cautioned public servants against misconduct, emphasizing discipline, professionalism, and integrity as key to sustaining careers in government service.
The warning was issued on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, during an induction exercise for 73 newly appointed staff held at Mbale City council premises. The recruits were drawn from departments including education, health, administration, finance, and city enforcement.
Principal Human Resources Officer, Imucheri Rose, warned that the common perception of government jobs as “permanent and pensionable” depends largely on an individual’s conduct and performance.
“If you engage in misconduct such as extortion, insubordination, or poor service delivery, you risk dismissal. Your behavior and performance will determine how long you stay in service,” she cautioned.
City Human Resources officials stressed that public servants are expected to maintain professionalism not only at the workplace but also in their private lives.
“Once you are a public servant, you must behave professionally at all times, whether in office, at the market, or even in social places like bars,” officials emphasized, warning against inappropriate dressing, public misconduct, and financial indiscipline.
Senior Human Resources Officer, Warema Eve Harriet, described the induction as a mandatory process for all new entrants into public service, aimed at preparing them for the demands and expectations of government work.
“They must be oriented and taken through what is expected of a public servant,” she said. “We have covered the code of conduct, financial management, personal health, and performance appraisal systems.”
The induction also covered key employment aspects, including leave entitlements, retirement procedures, and pension qualifications. Officers were informed that the mandatory retirement age is 60 years, although provisions exist for voluntary and medical retirement.
On pension eligibility, officials noted that a public servant must be confirmed in service and serve for at least 10 years to qualify. However, dismissal on disciplinary grounds or abandonment of duty disqualifies one from pension benefits.
The exercise had earlier commenced with the administration of the oath of secrecy, with city authorities urging the inductees to uphold ethical standards and remain committed to serving the public with integrity.
