The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Lady Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala, has urged newly appointed members of the Public Service Commission (PSC) to uphold the highest standards of ethics, integrity and professionalism in the execution of their constitutional mandate.
The IGG made the call on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, while delivering a presentation titled “Ethics and Integrity, Handling Gifts, Lobbying and Confidential Information in Public Office” during the Commission’s weeklong induction programme at Serena Kigo.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Constitutional Leadership, Integrity and Excellence in Uganda’s Public Service Commission,” the induction seeks to equip the new commissioners with the knowledge, skills and ethical grounding required to execute their duties independently, impartially, professionally and accountably, in accordance with the Constitution and applicable laws.
Welcoming the IGG, the Secretary to the PSC, Dr. Godfrey Mbabazi, said she was well suited to guide the inductees on ethics and integrity, given the central role these principles play in the execution of public duties.
In her presentation, Lady Justice Naluzze described ethics and integrity as the foundations of credible public service. She explained that ethics provide standards for distinguishing right from wrong, while integrity is reflected in consistently doing what is right, even in the face of pressure, temptation or personal disadvantage.
She highlighted honesty, accountability, transparency, impartiality, professionalism, confidentiality, respect, justice and fairness as essential values that should guide the commissioners in carrying out their responsibilities.
The IGG urged the commissioners to treat all citizens fairly and equally, avoid favouritism, respect colleagues and members of the public, and ensure that official decisions are based on established procedures rather than personal interests or external influence.
On the handling of gifts, she cautioned the commissioners against soliciting or accepting gifts, favours or hospitality that could compromise their impartiality or create an obligation to favour the giver.
She advised them to declare gifts received in their official capacity, maintain proper records and decline or report any gifts that could amount to attempted bribery.
Gifts offered in exchange for a service, contract, favour or official decision, she stressed, must be rejected and reported through the appropriate channels.
Lady Justice Naluzze also emphasised the need to safeguard confidential official information, warning against its unauthorised disclosure or use for personal gain or to give particular individuals an unfair advantage.
She reminded the commissioners that public officers are custodians of official information and must only disclose it through authorised channels and in accordance with the law.
The IGG further underscored the importance of leading by example, noting that ethical conduct and integrity are integral to institutional performance, effective service delivery and public trust.
“Public offices are meant to be exercised in the public interest, not for personal gain or the benefit of particular individuals,” she emphasised.
She wished the commissioners a successful term of office, urging them to uphold ethical standards and follow lawful procedures when making decisions that affect individuals and public institutions, as well as the credibility of Uganda’s public service.
Lady Justice Naluzze also reminded the commissioners to submit their declarations of income, assets and liabilities by January 16, 2027, as required under the Leadership Code Act, Cap. 33.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni appointed the nine-member Public Service Commission, whose members were sworn in on October 16, 2026.
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