In a mini-survey conducted across the country by Makerere University, Mbale Branch, under the Department of Community Education, Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) have strongly emphasized the acquisition of administrative law knowledge as crucial for the success of government programs and the achievement of policy objectives.
In a representative capacity, both the Chief Administrative Officers for Mbale and Rukungiri Districts stressed that the administrative law course should be a mandatory qualification for all local government staff.
Emphasizing the Relevance of Administrative Law
Mr. Luke Lukuda, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for Mbale District, highlighted the importance of administrative law, noting that this knowledge promotes lawful decision-making, ensuring fairness, consistency, and legality in the implementation of government policies.
“Administrative law helps staff guide communities on human rights issues, as they work closely with local populations,” Lukuda said. He also questioned how officers, such as Human Resource Officers, could effectively manage their departments without a clear understanding of administrative law.
“I recently advised the District Service Commission (DSC) to prioritize applicants with a background in administrative law alongside other core qualifications,” he added. “As CAO, I am always uncomfortable when I see my staff being arrested for mishandling government programs, such as the current PDM (Parish Development Model).”
Lukuda also appealed to Makerere University for support in training government staff across the country, noting that the university has centers spread throughout Uganda that could play a vital role in these training efforts.
Support from Other CAOs and University Representatives
In support of Lukuda’s remarks, Dr. Waswa Masokoyi, the CAO for Rukungiri District, stated that administrative law helps reduce costly administrative mistakes. He also called on Makerere University to establish a training center in Rukungiri District and promised the district would allocate space for the center.
Mr. Steven Masiga, Director of Makerere University’s Mbale Branch, expressed his alarm over police reports and the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) reports indicating the rising number of staff in MDAs and local governments being arrested for corruption and misconduct. “We can’t sit idly by while our people are corrupted by the evils of capitalism,” Masiga stated.
Masiga emphasized that the university’s survey findings would guide local government entities to prioritize legal knowledge as a critical skill for all local government staff.
The Role of Makerere University in Promoting Administrative Law
Makerere University, under the guidance of the Government since the 1960s, has established several centers across Uganda with the aim of bringing higher education to the people. One of the most notable courses is Administrative Law, which is now taught at multiple university centers, including:
-
Mbale Branch
-
Busia Center
-
Soroti Center
-
Iganga Center
-
Wakiso Center
-
Mubende Center
-
Lira Center
-
Main Campus
The Administrative Law course covers topics such as:
-
Introduction to law
-
Criminal law
-
Constitutional law
-
Contract law
-
Administrative processes
-
Roles of governmental bodies and the enactment of bylaws
Masiga praised the university’s academic infrastructure, noting that Makerere has a solid team of magistrates, professors, and senior lawyers who ensure that the local government staff is trained adequately.
Promoting Accountability in Government Programs
Masiga pointed out that government outputs are evaluated based on the fulfillment of policy objectives, particularly in welfare programs aimed at benefiting citizens. He explained that local governments are responsible for executing these policies, and therefore, local government staff must be equipped with the necessary skills to ensure effective implementation.
“Knowledge of administrative law will guide employees in distinguishing between public and private funds, ensuring that public money is spent according to established protocols,” he added.
Survey Methodology and Findings
The survey utilized randomized sampling, purposeful observations, and literature review. It also relied on IGG reports, police crime reports, court rulings, and reports from the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to come to its conclusions.
Special thanks were given to Luke Lukuda (CAO, Mbale District) and Dr. Waswa Masokoyi (CAO, Rukungiri District) for their contributions. Additionally, the Makerere University Mbale Center recognized the contributions of legal researchers involved in the survey.
