Government Moves to Synchronise New National IDs Following Verification Complaints

Ugandans experiencing difficulties using their newly acquired national identification cards for banking and other transactions can expect relief soon. The Minister for Health, Hon. Chris Baryomunsi, announced that the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) is currently undertaking a synchronisation process with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to fully authenticate the new IDs.

Speaking during a plenary sitting, Baryomunsi addressed concerns raised by Hon. Paul Mwiru (NUP, Jinja South Division East). Mwiru shared his frustration after his bank froze his account and rejected his new ID, demanding an extra verification letter from NIRA. He noted that many other citizens faced similar hurdles, raising questions about the government’s push to transition from tax identification numbers (TINs) to national identity numbers (NINs).

State Minister for Finance (Planning), Hon. Amos Lugoloobi, had earlier defended the NIN transition as a measure to expand the tax base, eliminate duplicate registrations, and streamline tax administration. However, lawmakers pointed out that integration issues could frustrate the proposal if IDs remain unrecognised by financial institutions.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa directed the Committee on ICT and National Guidance to oversee the seamless authentication of the IDs by the responsible ministries.

In a separate directive, the Deputy Speaker instructed the same committee to urgently handle petitions regarding unlicensed internet service providers and mobile hot-spot dealers. This follows a recent UCC order demanding the shutdown of unlicensed public Wi-Fi operations. Committee Chairperson Hon. Andrew Ojok confirmed that hearings on the Wi-Fi matter would commence promptly.

Read the full report on the Parliament of Uganda.