In a bold move, the staff of Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) have rejected the government’s offer of Shs46Bn as compensation for the authority’s impending abolition. Instead, they’re demanding a whopping Shs196Bn, citing that the initial offer fails to consider the staff structure and terminal benefits outlined in their contracts.
Allen Kagina, UNRA’s Executive Director, expressed her concerns before Parliament’s Physical Infrastructure Committee, questioning the government’s methodology in arriving at the Shs46.443Bn figure. Kagina’s stance is backed by the committee, which has been critical of the government’s rationalization efforts.
This development comes amidst the government’s plans to merge or abolish various agencies, including UNRA, to streamline public services. However, the process has been met with resistance from affected agencies and parliamentarians, who argue that the move may compromise critical functions and employee welfare.
UNRA CONCERNS
Staff Structure: The authority argues that the government’s offer disregards the staff structure and terminal benefits provided in their contracts.
Compensation Disparity: The proposed Shs46Bn is significantly lower than the demanded Shs196Bn, sparking concerns about the government’s valuation of UNRA’s assets and personnel.
Rationalization Impact: The abolition of UNRA may impact the country’s road network development and maintenance, which has been a key focus area for the authority since its establishment in 2008.
As the debate unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will address UNRA’s concerns and those of other affected agencies. The outcome will likely have far-reaching implications for Uganda’s public sector and infrastructure development.
