Minister pens official complaint about PS Ssali's conduct

Francis Mwebesa, the Ugandan Minister of Trade, has lodged a formal complaint with Lucy Nakyobe, the head of Public Service, accusing Permanent Secretary Geraldine Ssali of misconduct that has severely impacted the ministry's work environment.

Mwebesa's letter, dated April 9, 2024, paints a concerning picture of a ministry in disarray. He blames Ssali's "unprofessional conduct" for creating a "toxic working environment" that has demonstrably affected staff performance.

The Minister cites a series of actions by Ssali that have contributed to the turmoil. Since taking office, Ssali has allegedly orchestrated forced transfers of several key personnel, including heads of crucial departments like Planning and Policy, Human Resource, Procurement, and Accounts. This instability, coupled with the unhealthy work atmosphere, has reportedly driven some staff to seek early retirement.

The situation escalated dramatically just days before Mwebesa's letter. Sandra Anena Karen, the head of the ministry's legal department, accused Ssali of physical assault. Anena filed a police report on April 5, 2024, alleging that Ssali slapped her at the ministry's offices in Kampala.

In response to the assault allegation, Ssali levied counter-accusations against Anena, claiming "gross unbecoming behaviour" that included verbal abuse, threats, and insubordination.

However, Mwebesa contests Ssali's narrative in his letter. He highlights the ongoing police investigation and expresses concern that Ssali might be attempting to "cover up" the incident with "misinformation."

More critically, Mwebesa argues that Ssali's actions towards Anena bypassed proper disciplinary procedures. Standard protocol dictates that Anena should have the opportunity to defend herself before a committee before facing any repercussions. Mwebesa emphasizes that Ssali cannot function as accuser, investigator, and judge in this situation.

Beyond the assault incident, Mwebesa raises concerns about Ssali's performance as the ministry's Accounting Officer. He points to a pattern of delayed subvention payments to affiliated agencies, which hinders their ability to execute their work plans.

Mwebesa also expresses his inability to effectively fulfill his ministerial duties under Ssali's leadership.

He cites the negative impact on both the ministry's mandate and the implementation of the NRM manifesto. Given these factors, Mwebesa concludes his letter by recommending that "action be taken" against Ssali.

While Mwebesa's letter sheds light on Ssali's management style, described by ministry staff as "high-handed" and prone to favoritism, Ssali maintains her innocence. Appointed PS in 2021, she claims to be targeted by "shadowy forces" as she attempts to reform and revitalize the ministry.

Only time will tell how these accusations will be addressed and what consequences, if any, Ssali will face. However, Mwebesa's formal complaint underscores the urgency of restoring stability and fostering a more productive work environment within the Ugandan Ministry of Trade.