Uganda Ministry of Works faces administrative standoff

The Ugandan Ministry of Works and Transport is facing significant administrative instability following a government reshuffle and allegations of mismanagement. A standoff has emerged after the communications chief, Suzan Kataike, reportedly refused to hand over her office to her successor, Khadija Nakakande. Kataike has reportedly appealed to President Yoweri Museveni to reverse the transfer.

Minister Fred Byamukama has been at the center of the internal friction. He has advocated for changes to the communications structure, accusing certain officials of being “old stock” and collaborating with “mafias” and “thieves.” These accusations have coincided with the arrest of some ministry staff and have led to public criticism regarding his leadership style.

Critics have expressed concern that the minister’s approach, characterized by verbal outbursts and unproven allegations of corruption, is damaging the ministry’s technical capacity and its relationship with foreign infrastructure funders. There are growing calls for presidential intervention to stabilize the ministry and address the perceived disorganization.