By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
Political leaders have been directed to declare their income, assets, and liabilities to the Inspectorate of Government (IG) by March 31, 2025
According to Betty Olive Namisango Kamya, the Inspector General of Government (IGG), this directive aligns with the Leadership Code Act, Cap 33, which mandates specified leaders to declare their wealth to the IG every two years.
Kamya emphasized that this initiative aims to combat corruption and curb the misuse of public funds by individuals in political positions. She revealed that the compliance rate for asset declaration among public servants has steadily increased—from 85% in 2017 to 90% in 2023. With the last declaration exercise conducted in March 2023, the IG expects at least 95% compliance this year.
“This declaration period applies only to leaders, not public officers. Public officers who are not classified as leaders will submit their declarations in April 2026,” Kamya clarified.
She stressed that this exercise promotes accountability and transparency and warned of legal consequences for non-compliance. Penalties include fines, warnings, demotion, dismissal, vacation of office, and confiscation of illicitly acquired assets.
“We appeal to all leaders to comply with this requirement. Failure to declare will result in prosecution before the Leadership Code Tribunal, where we shall seek harsh penalties, including dismissal from office,” Kamya warned.
Who is Require to Declare?
The leaders required to declare their wealth include:
- The President and Vice President
- Cabinet ministers
- Members of Parliament (MPs)
- Leaders of opposition political parties
- Committee members of political parties, among others.
These individuals must submit their declarations virtually between March 1 and March 31, 2025, disclosing details of their personal information, financial interests, securities, bank accounts, land, and other assets—both within and outside Uganda.
Call for Transparency and Public Vigilance
Deputy IGG Patrick A. Okiria reiterated the importance of transparency in public office. He urged leaders to uphold integrity and accountability, emphasizing that public officials hold office in trust of the citizens.
“There are public officials who misuse resources for personal gain. The public must be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ensure transparency in the management of public resources,” Okiria stated.
In addition, the IG has urged aspiring political candidates for the 2026 general elections to also declare their wealth.
“For those planning to contest in 2026, you must declare your income, assets, and liabilities. This will allow the IG to verify that your wealth is commensurate with your known sources of income,” Okiria advised.
The IG has vowed to enforce this directive strictly, ensuring political leaders remain accountable and that public resources are managed responsibly.
