By Patriot corps
In a recent development, Minister of Trade, Francis Mwebesa, has penned a letter to Lucy Nakyobe, Head of Public Service, urging action against Permanent Secretary Geraldine Ssali over allegations of misconduct. Mwebesa expressed his concerns regarding the impact of Ssali’s conduct on the Ministry’s operations and staff performance.
Mwebesa cited instances of forced transfers of key personnel and a toxic work environment allegedly created by Ssali. This has reportedly led to early retirements and a decline in staff morale within the Ministry.
The situation escalated following accusations of assault leveled against Ssali by Sandra Anena Karen, the head of the legal department at the Trade Ministry. Anena accused Ssali of physical assault, leading to a formal complaint filed with the authorities.
In response, Ssali interdicted Anena, citing unprofessional behavior and insubordination. However, Mwebesa highlighted concerns over the fairness of the interdiction process, emphasizing the need for due process and impartial investigation.
Additionally, Mwebesa raised issues regarding Ssali’s handling of financial matters within the Ministry, citing delays in remitting subventions to agencies, which has reportedly hindered the implementation of work plans.
Concluding his letter to Nakyobe, Mwebesa reiterated his difficulty in effectively collaborating with Ssali and recommended that appropriate action be taken against her.
Ssali, who assumed office in 2021, has denied allegations of high-handedness and claims to be facing resistance from vested interests as she seeks to reform the Ministry.
This development follows previous controversies surrounding Ssali, including her suspension as the Ministry’s accounting officer due to allegations of corruption. Despite parliamentary inquiries and accusations of fund mismanagement, President Museveni ordered her reinstatement, further fueling the ongoing debate over her tenure.
Geraldine Ssali, who previously served as Deputy Managing Director of the National Social Security Fund (Uganda), has been embroiled in various controversies throughout her career.