The position of Inspector General of Government Uganda is again in the spotlight. Ms Beti Olive Kamya, the current IGG, is nearing the end of her first four-year term. She was appointed in 2021 and has confirmed her readiness to serve a second term if reappointed. Her two deputies—Dr Patricia Achan Okiria and Ms Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe—have also shown interest in the top job or the renewal of their current roles.
The Inspector General of Government Uganda leads the fight against corruption and abuse of office. Established under Chapter 13 of the 1995 Constitution, this office operates independently and reports only to Parliament. The IGG can investigate, arrest, prosecute, and inspect public offices. These duties make the role one of the most powerful in Uganda’s governance system.
Ms Kamya, formerly the Lands Minister and MP for Rubaga North, took over from Justice Irene Mulyagonja. Known for her strong Christian values and hands-on leadership, Kamya said she finds satisfaction in the IGG role. “Of course, I will be available if given a second term. It’s a challenging job, but it brings satisfaction,” she said. Kamya added that she wants to continue helping Uganda fight the “cancer of corruption.”
Her leadership experience spans both public and private sectors. She has held roles at Uganda Breweries, NYTIL, and Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. Kamya also served as Kampala Minister and has led several national institutions. Her reputation as a firm and ethical leader supports her candidacy for another term as Inspector General of Government Uganda.
Despite her willingness, the job is not guaranteed. Her deputies also hope to be considered. Sources suggest lobbying is underway through powerful channels, including Gen Salim Saleh and First Lady Janet Museveni. President Museveni recently praised Ms Muhairwe during a public event, calling her courageous and effective. This has fueled speculation that she could succeed Kamya.
Ms Muhairwe earned national attention for her report on the Kiteezi landfill disaster. Her investigation found several KCCA officials responsible for negligence. Although the DPP later cleared one official, Muhairwe stood by her work. She noted that her duty was to investigate, not to prosecute. Muhairwe brings over 16 years of experience, especially from the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs. There, she led legal reforms and helped military veterans access justice.
Dr Patricia Achan Okiria also stands out. She holds a Doctorate in Law and has served in various public institutions for over 20 years. Her experience includes human rights, governance, and legal drafting. She worked with the Uganda Human Rights Commission and the Directorate for Ethics and Integrity. Dr Okiria also helped create training manuals for Uganda’s security forces. As a key figure in the Uganda Christian Lawyers Fraternity, she has strong professional and ethical credentials.
The Inspector General of Government Uganda earns a monthly salary of Shs36 million, while deputies earn Shs32 million. Beyond salary, the role demands integrity, independence, and courage. It comes with intense public scrutiny and requires constant commitment to justice.
The final decision lies with President Museveni. He may reappoint Kamya, elevate one of her deputies, or pick someone entirely new. His choice will shape Uganda’s anti-corruption efforts over the next four years. The person selected must uphold the values of fairness, transparency, and constitutionalism.
This contest for Inspector General of Government Uganda is more than a routine appointment. It reflects the country’s broader commitment to good governance and public accountability. As the decision nears, Ugandans wait to see who will carry the torch in the battle against corruption.
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