President Museveni Urges Investigators to Strengthen Community Links to Combat Corruption

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon the country's criminal investigators to deepen their ties with local communities to more effectively fight corruption. Speaking at the close of the annual coordination meeting between the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID) of the Uganda Police, the President emphasized that the fight against corruption requires collaboration with the population, who are the primary victims of public resource theft.

"Corruption targets government resources meant for the people," Museveni stated. "The money for the roads, schools, healthcare, and initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) is often stolen. The beneficiaries, who are denied these resources, are eager to share information. It’s your job as CID officers to engage them."

The meeting, held at the CID headquarters in Kibuli, Kampala, gathered over 620 participants, including investigators, prosecutors, and stakeholders in the criminal justice system. The event, themed "The Contribution of ODPP/CID in the Socio-Economic Transformation of Uganda," aimed to enhance coordination and collaboration for tackling high-profile cases, including corruption and electoral offenses.

Commitment to Technology and Infrastructure

President Museveni also reiterated his support for improving the CID’s capabilities, announcing plans to establish a crime data and forensics center. He urged the CID to leverage technical intelligence tools, such as CCTV cameras, which have already proven effective in combating crime.

"In 2018, I pushed for the installation of cameras, and you’ve seen their impact. Now, you need to harness these tools fully," he advised, referencing the NRM's successful use of captured enemy radios during their liberation struggle.

A Call for Swift Justice

Addressing the issue of bail in high-profile cases like corruption, murder, and treason, Museveni cautioned investigators against delaying investigations, stressing the importance of careful deliberation when granting bail. "Yes, the accused has rights, but so do the victims. Be cautious, especially in cases ready for trial."

The President’s comments were echoed by the Minister for Internal Affairs, Maj Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, who highlighted the need for improved welfare and working conditions for police officers, while calling on leaders to join the President in the fight against corruption.

Continued Economic and Social Transformation

Museveni also touched on Uganda’s economic trajectory, pointing to the success of the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) strategies since 1986. He emphasized the importance of diversifying the economy, highlighting Uganda’s transition from traditional cash crops to new products like dairy and maize, which are now key to the nation's economic growth.

"The British once told us that coffee, cotton, and tobacco were the only cash crops, but we proved them wrong. Anything with a market is a cash crop," Museveni said, reflecting on the country’s evolving economic landscape.

Strong Foundations for the Future

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, praised the ongoing collaboration with CID, noting an 86% conviction rate in the Anti-Corruption Court. Meanwhile, CID Director AIGP Tom Magambo underscored the need to enhance capacity for dealing with the increasingly sophisticated nature of criminal activities, particularly in cyberspace.

"We’re moving in the right direction, but we must continue to adapt and utilize all available resources," Magambo said, assuring the President of the CID's commitment to meeting the challenges ahead.

The ceremony, which also featured remarks from the Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba, was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Security, Gen. Jim Muhwezi, and the Attorney General, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka.