President Museveni has made a surprise move by transferring David Kalemera, the head of the State House Revenue Intelligence and Strategic Operations Unit, to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This sudden shift has raised eyebrows, especially given Kalemera’s previous role in tackling corruption within the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA).
Kalemera’s appointment to the tax investigations unit was initially seen as a bold move by Museveni to address the issue of tax evasion and corruption. Kalemera had vowed to expose “parasites” within the tax administration system, citing massive tax losses due to fraud and undue influence.
However, sources reveal that the unit was not fully funded to execute its mandate, which might have hindered Kalemera’s efforts to make a significant impact. The reasons behind Kalemera’s transfer remain unclear, but it’s speculated that he will soon join the Foreign Ministry as an officer.
The Public Service Commission is currently reviewing Kalemera’s particulars before he officially joins the diplomatic community. This development raises questions about the future of the State House Revenue Intelligence and Strategic Operations Unit and whether it will receive a new leader.
Museveni’s warnings about massive tax evasion last year highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue. With Uganda’s GDP standing at $55 billion, Museveni emphasized that the country should be generating $11 billion in taxes, which would significantly boost the national budget.
As Kalemera prepares to take on his new role, it remains to be seen how his experience in tackling corruption will be utilized in the Foreign Ministry.
One thing is certain, however: Museveni’s administration is keenly aware of the need to address tax evasion and corruption, and Kalemera’s transfer might be a strategic move to leverage his expertise in a different capacity.
