President Yoweri Museveni has dismissed several high ranking officials from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) starting with ED Dorothy Kisaka following a devastating landfill collapse weeks ago that claimed the lives of more than 35 people. The ugly incident occurred on August 10th at the Kiteezi landfill prompted a swift investigation by the Inspector General of Government (IGG).
The IGG’s report revealed “severe oversight and negligence” on the part of KCCA leadership, ultimately leading to President Museveni’s decision to fire Executive Director Dorothy Kisaka, Deputy Executive Director Eng. David Luyimbazi, and Director of Public Health Dr Daniel Okello.
The President cited Article 172 (1) (a) of the 1995 Constitution, which grants him the authority to dismiss officials in the public interest, as justification for his actions. The Kiteezi landfill, located in Wakiso District, had long been a source of concern. And nothing has been done on it to save the possible disaster.
A 2008 World Bank report highlighted its failure to adhere to environmental best practices. Additionally, the site had been plagued by unfulfilled promises made by city authorities when it opened in 1996. These included commitments to build a health centre for nearby residents, pave the Mpererwe-Kiteezi road, and provide safe drinking water to the area.
Furthermore, plans to establish a modern garbage dumpsite in Dundu Village, Mukono District, within three years of its purchase in 2015 never came to fruition. More so, the President has instructed the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and other law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, focusing on potential criminal negligence.
“The IGG’s report clearly outlined the severe oversight and negligence exhibited by these officials. In light to these findings, the president has called upon the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and other crime management agencies to thoroughly investigate the matter” the letter partly stressed.
To ensure a seamless transition, the Public Service Commission has been directed to initiate the process of appointing new officials to the vacant positions within the next three months. In the meantime, the Minister for Kampala will advise the President on interim appointments to maintain KCCA’s operations without disruption.
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This decisive action underscores the Ugandan government’s commitment to accountability and upholding the highest standards of governance. The tragedy at Kiteezi landfill serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible waste management practices and the need for transparency and follow through from those in positions of authority.
