KAMPALA
Government has terminated contract of the Board Chairperson of Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), and sent the Managing Director on forced leave.
Energy and Mineral Development minister, Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu the move is part of a broader review of the company’s management and operations aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and service delivery within the electricity distribution sub-sector.
“The Government has undertaken a review of the management at UEDCL. In this regard, the services of the Chairperson of the Board have been terminated, and the Managing Director has been placed on forced leave to allow for a comprehensive review of the company’s management and operations,” Nankabirwa said.
The development follows earlier reports indicating that Board Chairperson Lydia Ochieng-Obbo had been relieved of her duties, while Managing Director Paul Mwesigwa was directed to step aside pending investigations or administrative review. However, the ministry did not disclose specific reasons for the decisions.
To ensure continuity, government has instituted interim leadership arrangements. The government appointed an interim Board Chairperson and Acting Managing Director to oversee day-to-day operations during the transition.
“These interim arrangements will remain in place until the vacant positions are substantively filled,” she added.
The ministry emphasized that the actions are part of routine governance and oversight processes, and not in response to any immediate crisis. Officials said the review is intended to reinforce institutional performance and align operations with national energy priorities.
UEDCL plays a central role in Uganda’s electricity value chain, particularly in distribution as the country expands generation capacity and extends power access to more households and businesses.
Nankabirwa said the changes will not affect electricity supply.
“The public and all stakeholders are hereby assured that electricity supply and distribution services will continue uninterrupted during this period,” she added.
The ministry further called for cooperation from stakeholders as the review process continues, describing the reforms as part of ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and operational effectiveness in the energy sector.
