In a call for reform ahead of Uganda’s 2026 General Elections, anti-corruption civil society organizations have urged the government to enact a Campaign Finance Law to regulate political financing and curb the illicit funds driving corruption in Uganda’s political processes.
Groups such as the Anti-Corruption Coalition Uganda (ACCU), Alliance for Finance Monitoring (ACFIM), Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group (CSBAG), ActionAid International Uganda (AAIU), Transparency International Uganda (TIU), and the Uganda Debt Network (UDN) stressed the need for a clean and transparent political system.
The organizations made these remarks while unveiling their planned activities for Uganda’s 2024 Anti-Corruption Day. Scheduled events include digital campaigns, the National Citizen Integrity Awards, public forums, media engagements, and regional anti-corruption initiatives in Karamoja.
Henry Muguzi, Executive Director of the Alliance for Finance Monitoring, described the corruption within Uganda’s political system as “worrying,” citing how it contributes to poor service delivery after leaders assume office. “The unchecked flow of money in politics seriously undermines public trust and electoral integrity,” Muguzi noted.
Marlon Agaba, Executive Director of the Anti-Corruption Coalition Uganda, underscored that many individuals within government are frustrated with corruption and willing to support anti-corruption efforts. “We’re calling on citizens to participate by saying ‘No to Corruption’ and reporting any corrupt activities,” Agaba added, emphasizing the role of public vigilance in combating the issue.
Agaba also called for swift action on asset forfeiture laws and stronger penalties for corrupt officials, arguing that these measures would deter misconduct and establish a zero-tolerance approach.
“Though fighting corruption is challenging, with collective action, we can move towards a more transparent and accountable Uganda,” Agaba said, stressing the importance of citizen involvement in sustaining momentum for change.
Highlighting the Importance of Integrity
In her remarks, Mercy Munduru, Programs and fundraising Officer at ActionAid Uganda, highlighted the public’s growing role in combating corruption, particularly among the youth.
”We’re seeing real progress, fueled by citizens who are sharing crucial information online—an approach civil society organizations have long awaited,” Munduru said. She cited social media campaigns led by journalist-activist Agatha Atuhaire and Makerere University’s Dr. Spire Ssentongo, who have used online exhibitions to reveal corruption trends across various sectors.
Munduru stressed that public servants with integrity should also be recognized. “In a society overshadowed by corruption, it’s easy to overlook the honest public servants who serve diligently,” she added. ActionAid Uganda’s Citizen Integrity Awards, scheduled for December 4, will allow Ugandans to nominate and celebrate these exemplary individuals.
Planned Activities for Anti-Corruption Day 2024
In alignment with the United Nations’ Anti-Corruption Day on December 9, the civil society coalition has organized events to raise awareness, engage the public, and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders. These activities include:
- Media Engagement: National and local TV, radio, and newspaper initiatives to educate the public and encourage participation in anti-corruption efforts.
- Digital Campaigns: Social media activities targeting young people to promote anti-corruption messages.
- Anti-Corruption Convention: Scheduled for December 5 at Four Points by Sheraton, this convention will bring together stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, and academia.
- Public Forums (Barazas): Open dialogues at national and local levels to address accountability and service delivery issues.
- National Citizen Integrity Awards: Honoring public servants with a commitment to integrity on December 4.
- Regional Initiatives in Karamoja: Community-focused anti-corruption events in Karamoja to address region-specific concerns.
- District Integrity Forums: Local forums across Uganda to promote transparency within district governments.
Agaba closed with a call to action, stating, “We remain committed to supporting all anti-corruption initiatives, and we urge every Ugandan to join us in this fight.”
As Uganda loses an estimated UGX 9.14 trillion annually to corruption, according to the Inspectorate of Government, these organizations argue that citizen-driven efforts—spanning activism, reporting, and public accountability—are vital to sustaining Uganda’s fight against corruption.
