Politics 21 October 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Parliament Undergoes Scrutiny: Hunt for Ghost Workers Intensifies
Uganda's Parliament is conducting a rigorous staff verification exercise, prompted by allegations of irregular hiring and ghost workers, to align its payroll with the approved organizational structure. The audit aims to address concerns over nepotism and misuse of public funds inherited from the previous parliamentary term. Source: https://observer.ug/news/inside-parliaments-hunt-for-ghost-staff
A significant staff verification exercise is underway at Uganda’s Parliament, aimed at uncovering irregularities in hiring practices and identifying “ghost workers” on the payroll. The process, initiated by Speaker Jacob Markson Oboth following a request from the Head of Public Service, requires all employees to present comprehensive documentation, including appointment letters, academic credentials, and promotion records.
The audit comes amid widespread public concern over the legislative body’s substantial budget and persistent corruption scandals. With Parliament allocated Shs 1.23 trillion in the 2026/27 financial year, revelations that potentially over 150 individuals may have been irregularly added to the payroll have intensified scrutiny.
Insiders suggest the exercise is uncovering a pattern of patronage and nepotism, where government officials allegedly secured positions for relatives without following standard recruitment procedures. Some reports indicate junior staff with basic qualifications are supervising more experienced colleagues, and individuals have been placed in roles that do not exist within Parliament’s official structure.
The physical verification process has reportedly revealed individuals who appear unfamiliar with their departments and roles, suggesting they may have been receiving salaries without performing legitimate duties. This comprehensive review is seen by many as a direct examination of human resource practices from the previous parliamentary term under former Speaker Anita Annet Among.
As evaluators meticulously review documentation, the findings are expected to test Parliament’s resolve in addressing internal issues and holding accountable those who may have benefited from public funds without contributing. The exercise is scheduled to conclude this week, with anticipated outcomes that could lead to significant reforms within the institution’s staffing and administrative frameworks.
This intensive verification exercise is being conducted at Parliament’s premises as detailed in the report by The Observer.