KAMPALA, UGANDA – Public opinion is demanding a fundamental overhaul of Uganda’s salary structure for government officials, with an overwhelming majority of citizens backing a significant pay rise for teachers and a sharp reduction in the wages of Members of Parliament.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The findings, revealed during a wide-ranging service delivery survey conducted across multiple districts, indicate a deep-seated disillusionment with political leaders and a feeling that the taxpayer’s voice is being ignored.
The survey of local communities uncovered a consistent theme of disappointment, with citizens reporting that their needs are being sidelined by those in power.
“We are not considered as part of the government.Those with authority undermine our participation in development, forgetting that it is the local taxpayer who plays the big role in keeping this country afloat,” one concerned citizen stated, capturing a sentiment echoed by many.
The survey data suggests that approximately 70% of participants are in favor of two key measures: a substantial salary increase and equal pay for teachers at all levels, and a sharp reduction in Parliamentarians’ monthly earnings.
Moving beyond general grievances, respondents proposed a new national pay structure that would cap the salaries of Parliamentarians and Ministers at 10 million UGX per month, a dramatic reduction from current earnings. Some also called for a reduction in the number of officials.
Further pay reforms included a standardized monthly salary of 10 million Shillings for all teachers to ensure equal pay, and a raise to 15 million Shillings monthly for doctors in recognition of their critical work.
The citizens’ critique extended beyond salaries to the very structure of governance, arguing that the continuous creation of new districts has failed in its core objective of bringing services closer to the people.
To remedy this, they proposed a radical consolidation: merging every three current districts into one administrative unit represented by only one Member of Parliament, thereby drastically cutting the size of the legislature.
The survey found a widespread perception of a broken social contract, with citizens viewing the political class as a burden on taxpayers rather than public servants.
The proposed measures, slashing MP salaries, raising crucial public sector wages, and restructuring governance are presented as a necessary corrective to restore balance and ensure that national resources serve the many, not the few.
The findings of this survey are likely to fuel ongoing public debate about equitable pay, the cost of politics, and the meaning of true representation in Uganda.
About the Author
