# Uganda petroleum authority leadership transition

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/uganda-petroleum-authority-leadership-transition
> Updated: 2026-10-02T14:34:35.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

The Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU) has commenced a leadership transition following the departure of its pioneer Executive Director, Ernest Rubondo, who concluded his second and final term on August 31, 2026. 

Otonga Michael Ochan, the Director of Finance and Corporate Services, has been appointed by the Minister to serve as Acting Executive Director effective September 1, 2026. This transition takes place as the country prepares for commercial crude oil production from the Albertine Graben, referred to as ‘Pearl Sweet’.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-02: Emmanuel Katongole resigns as Uganda Revenue Authority Board Chairman

Emmanuel Katongole has resigned as Chairman of the Uganda Revenue Authority Board after six months, amid reports of internal institutional controversy and infighting.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/emmanuel-katongole-resigns-as-uganda-revenue-authority-board-chairman

### 2026-09-02: Petroleum Authority of Uganda begins leadership transition

Ernest Rubondo has exited his role as Executive Director of the Petroleum Authority of Uganda after ten years. Otonga Michael Ochan has been appointed acting director pending a permanent successor.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/petroleum-authority-of-uganda-begins-leadership-transition

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Cite as: Uganda petroleum authority leadership transition. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/uganda-petroleum-authority-leadership-transition