JUST IN!! Uganda Local Gov’t Workers Union Threaten Nationwide Strike Over Delayed Salaries, Issues 3 Weeks Ultimatum To Gov’t

The Uganda Local Government Workers Union has given the government a three-week ultimatum, demanding action on long-overdue salary increases. The union has warned that failure to address their demands could trigger a nationwide strike, potentially disrupting essential services across the country.

Led by National Chairperson Emmanuel Gidudu and General Secretary Hassan Mudiba, the union has met government officials three times to discuss the salary enhancements, but no tangible progress has been made. Frustration among local government workers is growing as delays continue.

The union stressed that ministers alone cannot authorize the pay increases. “Ministers cannot make decisions on salary enhancements as they are just placeholders. We want to meet the president directly to find a solution,” the leaders said, signaling the need for higher-level intervention to resolve the deadlock.

The proposed salary adjustment is viewed as long-overdue recognition of the dedication of local government employees. Many workers are struggling with rising living costs, and the delayed pay increase has intensified their financial pressures. The union argues that fair compensation is vital for maintaining morale and ensuring effective local service delivery.

The union has formally informed the responsible minister of the potential for industrial action. If no resolution is reached within the three-week timeframe, local government workers across Uganda are prepared to strike, potentially affecting critical services such as health, education, and local administration.

Observers note that the coming weeks are crucial. The government faces increasing pressure to respond, while the union must balance member expectations and unity. The situation underscores broader challenges in governance, accountability, and workers’ rights within Uganda’s local government system.

As the countdown continues, both the union and the government remain under scrutiny, with citizens watching to see whether dialogue will prevail or if the threatened strike will halt essential services.