By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Lady Justice Naluzze Aisha Batala, has urged newly appointed members of the Public Service Commission (PSC) to uphold the highest standards of ethics, integrity and professionalism in the execution of their constitutional mandate.
The IGG made the call while delivering a presentation on _Ethics and Integrity, Handling Gifts, Lobbying and Confidential Information in Public Office_ during the Commission’s weeklong induction programme at Serena Kigo on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.
The induction, held under the theme “Strengthening Constitutional Leadership, Integrity and Excellence in Uganda’s Public Service Commission,” aims to equip the newly appointed commissioners with the knowledge, skills, ethical grounding and institutional understanding required to discharge their mandate independently, impartially, professionally and accountably, in accordance with the Constitution and applicable laws.
Welcoming the IGG, the Secretary to the PSC, Dr. Godfrey Mbabazi, said she was the right person to address the inductees on ethics and integrity, given the importance of these principles in the execution of public duties.
In her presentation, the IGG emphasised that ethics and integrity are essential foundations of credible public service, noting that ethics provide the standards that guide right and wrong behaviour, while integrity is demonstrated through consistently doing what is right, even when faced with pressure, temptation or personal disadvantage.
She highlighted key ethical values that should guide the commissioners in carrying out their responsibilities, including honesty, accountability, transparency, impartiality, professionalism, confidentiality, respect, justice and fairness.
Lady Justice Naluzze urged the commissioners to treat all citizens fairly and equally, avoid favouritism, respect colleagues and the public, and ensure that official decisions are guided by established procedures rather than personal interests or external influence.
On the handling of gifts, the IGG warned the inductees against soliciting or accepting gifts, favours or hospitality that could compromise their impartiality or create an obligation to favour the giver.
She advised the commissioners to declare gifts received in their official capacity, keep proper records and decline or report gifts that could constitute attempted bribery. Gifts offered in exchange for a service, contract, favour or official decision, she emphasised, should be rejected and reported through the appropriate channels.
The IGG also stressed the importance of protecting confidential official information, warning against the unauthorised disclosure or use of sensitive information for personal gain or to give particular individuals an unfair advantage. She reminded the commissioners that public officers are custodians of official information and must only disclose it through authorised channels.
She further underscored the importance of leading by example, observing that ethical conduct and integrity are not separate from institutional performance but are necessary conditions for credible service delivery and public trust.
“Public offices are meant to be exercised in the public interest, not for personal gain or the benefit of particular individuals,” the IGG emphasised.
Lady Justice Naluzze wished the commissioners a successful term of office, urging them to uphold ethical standards and follow lawful processes in making decisions that affect individuals, public institutions and the credibility of Uganda’s public service.
She also reminded them to ensure that they submit their declaration of income, assets and liabilities by 16th January 2027 as required by the Leadership Code Act Cap 33.
President Kaguta Museveni appointed the new nine-member Public Service Commission, which was sworn in on 16th October, 2026.
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