Jean Jacque Rwomushana | Kampala | 9 June 2026
The East African Observer has received reports from multiple councillors alleging that some Kampala City division mayors are demanding payments ranging from UGX 20 million to UGX 50 million in exchange for appointments to influential executive positions within the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
The allegations, which could not be independently verified at the time of publication, have raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the formation of executive committees across several divisions.
KCCA ACT
Under the Kampala Capital City Authority Act, 2011, the Lord Mayor and division mayors are empowered to appoint elected councillors to serve on the City Executive Committee (CEC) and Division Executive Committees (DEC). Key positions include Deputy Mayor and Executive Secretaries responsible for portfolios such as Finance, Social Services, and Physical Planning.
These committees play a central role in formulating policy and guiding the business of the Authority.
While councillors serve on a part-time basis, executive appointments carry significant benefits, including facilitated offices, support staff, fuel allocations, and enhanced sitting allowances. The law grants appointment powers to the Mayor or Lord Mayor but does not provide for any form of payment or financial consideration in the appointment process.
“PAY-TO-SERVE” APPOINTMENTS
Several councillors who spoke to East African Observer on condition of anonymity claimed that some newly elected mayors have made executive appointments contingent upon financial payments.
According to the councillors, individuals unwilling or unable to meet the alleged demands have been overlooked for executive positions despite their qualifications or experience.
“One of the positions I was considered for ultimately went to someone who was prepared to pay more,” one councillor alleged.
The complaints were reported most frequently in Kawempe, Makindye and Rubaga divisions. East African Observer did not receive comparable allegations regarding appointments in Nakawa Division or from the administration led by Balimwezo.
CONCERNS OVER GOVERNANCE AND PUBLIC TRUST
Beyond the allegations themselves lies a broader question of public trust and good governance. Executive appointments within KCCA are intended to enable mayors to assemble competent teams capable of advancing service delivery and implementing policy priorities on behalf of the people who elected them.
Councillors raising the allegations argue that if appointment decisions are influenced by financial considerations rather than merit, the consequence is the exclusion of capable leaders in favour of those with greater financial means. Several councillors interviewed by East African Observer contend that some appointments have gone to individuals perceived as less qualified but financially able to secure positions.
Critics argue that such practices, if proven, risk undermining the effectiveness of local government by placing personal financial interests above public service. They further contend that executive positions should be filled on the basis of competence, integrity, experience and the ability to help deliver services to residents rather than on an individual’s ability to pay.
Governance observers note that public appointments perceived to be influenced by private financial transactions can erode public confidence in local government institutions, weaken accountability and raise serious questions about the stewardship of public office.
Because the KCCA Act does not provide for monetary consideration in executive appointments, the allegations, if substantiated, could raise concerns regarding abuse of office and breach of public trust.
RESPONSE SOUGHT
East African Observer has reached out to Kampala Capital City Authority officials and the mayors referenced in the complaints for comment.
Their responses will be published once received.
As of publication, none of the officials named in the allegations had publicly responded to the claims.
This is a developing story.