The High Court in Masaka has ordered the Inspector General of Government (IGG) to compensate Rose Nalubowa, the former Chairperson of Kyotera District Service Commission, with 150 million Shillings for denying her a fair hearing.
The IGG had previously advised the Public Service Commission to reject Nalubowa’s reappointment for a second term as the Chairperson of the Kyotera District Service Commission.
In her ruling on September 16, 2024, High Court Judge, Lady Justice Victoria N.N. Katamba, stated that Nalubowa’s right to work had been violated, which also infringed on her economic rights, as protected under Article 40 of Uganda’s 1995 Constitution.
The court ordered the IGG to pay 150 million Shillings in damages, with a 16% annual interest from the date of the ruling until full payment is made. The IGG was also instructed to cover Nalubowa’s legal costs.
Nalubowa’s troubles began during her term as Chairperson between 2018 and 2024, when a district recruitment exercise for a procurement officer was found to be substandard.
In response, Nalubowa halted the process. A complaint was later filed against her with the IGG, who found her guilty of misconduct and recommended disciplinary action.
However, the Solicitor General disagreed with the IGG’s actions, stating that the IGG is not a court and its decisions are not legally binding.
Nalubowa, represented by Lukwago & Co. Advocates, denied the accusations and filed a human rights case against the IGG, claiming her economic and constitutional rights were violated by the refusal to renew her appointment.
In her reaction to the court ruling, Nalubowa said she went to court seeking justice and to clear her name, streeing that she had tried to fight corruption and promote fair recruitment.
She urged the IGG to focus on more significant corruption cases, warning that mishandling public office could lead to costly compensations.
About Rose Nalubowa Musajjaakaawa
Rose Nalubowa is an experienced educator and former Deputy Buddu County Chief (Pookino). She is currently running for the Masaka City Woman Member of Parliament seat.
Nalubowa has a rich academic background, including degrees in Education and Democracy and Development Studies, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management.
She has served in various roles in education and local government, including as a Senior Education Officer and a District Councilor.
END
English 