The Minister of Internal Affairs, Maj Gen (Rtd) Kahinda Otafiire, has pointed fingers at officials from the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, accusing them of causing delays in crucial accommodation projects for the police, immigration, and prisons institutions. Otafiire expressed his frustration, stating that the paperwork for the public-private procurement project for accommodation is languishing on the shelves of the finance ministry.
Speaking at the pass-out ceremony of 2,717 police and immigration officers in Masindi District, Maj Gen Otafiire emphasized the urgent need for housing in the security sector. He lamented the current “pathetic” housing situation, with more than 89% of staff in the three institutions lacking proper accommodation.
The police have proposed the construction of 50,000 houses for their officers under a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement. However, the project is awaiting approval from the finance ministry, causing further delays.
Maj Gen Otafiire urged President Museveni to intervene, stating, “So, Your Excellency, I would like you to whip the officers in the Ministry of Finance to finish the PPP thing. You know when I talk, they think I am small and I am a troublemaker. But I will not keep quiet.”
Inspector General of Police Martins Okoth Ochola informed the gathering that the police would receive 53,000 accommodation units through the PPP project. He also highlighted the advanced stages of implementing the Sub-county Policing Model, beginning with the Greater Masaka Region. The model aims to enhance security at the sub-county level, providing vehicles, motorcycles, radios, and personnel to strengthen law enforcement.
President Museveni did not comment on the housing issue raised by Minister Otafiire during the ceremony.