A wave of frustration and bitterness has engulfed the Uganda Police Force as several officers face unexplained salary delays and deductions ahead of the Christmas celebrations. The crisis has prompted calls for immediate intervention by top government officials, including Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba, Minister of Internal Affairs Kahinda Otafiire, Minister of State for Internal Affairs David Muhoozi, Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among, and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.
Reports indicate that many police officers have not received their December salaries, while others were shocked to find only partial payments credited to their accounts. This financial strain comes at a time when officers are expected to be on high alert, ensuring security during the festive season, even as their families grapple with the hardship of an empty holiday season.
Among the affected ranks are Special Police Constables (SPCs) and senior officers up to the level of Superintendent of Police (SP). One SP, in a conversation with this publication, revealed that he received only UGX 579,000 instead of his full salary. “Are we really safe with this issue of salary? I got only 579,000,” he lamented, adding, “If anyone knows the salary section staff, tell them to pay me before I lose my patience.”
Another officer, a human resource manager, disclosed that he received only UGX 400,000 and was told the issue would be rectified in January. A colleague expressed concern about the challenges of the newly implemented Integrated Personnel and Payroll System (IPPS), describing it as the root cause of the problem.
“This new payment system is causing havoc. Officers are earning less than expected, and some can’t even withdraw their salaries. One SP got only UGX 400,000, which is a disgrace,” an officer shared.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service, Catherine Bitarakwate Musingwiire, recently acknowledged the payment inconsistencies, attributing them to technical glitches in the computerized payroll system. She advised affected individuals to liaise with the Ministry of Finance to generate missing supplier numbers, which are crucial for processing payments.
Efforts to reach the Uganda Police spokesperson for a comment were unsuccessful by press time. However, disgruntled officers are demanding swift action from the police leadership and the Ministry of Public Service to address the crisis.
“This is a disgrace to the uniform. How do they expect us to work during this busy festive season when our families have no food on the table?” an officer questioned.
The salary debacle has raised concerns about the morale and welfare of police officers, with calls for a permanent solution to prevent further discontent. As the holiday season approaches, officers are hoping their grievances will be addressed promptly to allow them to focus on their duties and family responsibilities.