JUST IN!! UPDF Medical Officers Cry Out to Gen. Muhoozi and President Museveni Over Unpaid Salary Increases

Medical officers serving in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have expressed growing frustration over low pay and the repeated failure to implement promised salary increments. Despite working under challenging conditions, these officers say they have been overlooked, while their counterparts in the police, prisons, local government, and civilian health sectors have already received their pay adjustments.

The medics report that they have followed all government procedures, including filing complaints with the Anti-Corruption Unit at State House, yet their concerns remain largely unaddressed. Some even claim they have faced intimidation, with threats of arrest if identified as whistleblowers. They emphasize that their dedication and sacrifices in combat and frontline roles make them equally deserving of the promised salary increases.

According to the officers, the Ministry of Health released funds to the Ministry of Defense for these salary adjustments, but implementation has stalled. They also highlight repeated delays in issuing practicing licenses, which are essential for their professional duties. While earlier interventions under officials like Edith Nakalema produced results, recent efforts have failed to yield any impact.

The medics note that government-approved salary increases in past budgets, including those for 2018-2019 and 2021-2022, have not yet benefited UPDF medical staff. They are now appealing directly to President Museveni and the Ministry of Defense, calling for fairness, payment of arrears, and recognition of their equal status among medical professionals in Uganda. Their plea underscores the urgent need for equity, transparency, and acknowledgment of the contributions of frontline military health workers.