Local Government Workers Reject Ultimatum, Insist Strike Will Continue

The conflict between Uganda’s government and local government workers escalated after the Uganda Local Government Workers Union (ULGWU) dismissed an ultimatum from the Minister of Public Service. The union labeled the minister’s promise of a pay rise as “a sham and diversionary” and confirmed that the strike will continue until persistent issues of unfair pay, discrimination, and neglect are fully addressed.

ULGWU accused the government of sidelining local government staff, whose salaries have remained stagnant since 2014. Despite signing a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) in 2018, the union says the government has consistently failed to implement its commitments. They criticized selective salary increments given to other civil servants while essential local government employees—vital to service delivery across the country—are left behind.

The union dismissed the minister’s statement as a political maneuver aimed at dividing workers and weakening lawful industrial action. “This is not the first time the government has made empty promises,” the statement read. “We cannot be misled again while our members continue to suffer under discriminatory salary structures.”

ULGWU reaffirmed its constitutional right to peaceful assembly and industrial action under Articles 29(1)(d) and 20(2) of the Ugandan Constitution, citing Section 24(1)(a)(b) of the Labour Unions Act. They warned that any interference from district officials, police, or resident commissioners would be illegal and subject to legal action.

The union also criticized the Uganda Local Government Association (ULGA) and the Urban Authorities Association of Uganda (UAAU) for submitting self-serving petitions that ignore the salary concerns of local government workers. Members may withhold subscription fees if such neglect continues.

The strike, which began on Wednesday, 1st October 2025, has already disrupted local government operations nationwide. ULGWU warned that continued inaction from the government could further impede service delivery, including key initiatives such as the Parish Development Model.

Describing the current pay system as “apartheid-style,” the union called on the government to uphold fairness, equality, and dignity as enshrined in the Constitution and championed by the Equal Opportunities Commission.

In conclusion, ULGWU reiterated that the strike will not end until the government meets their demands and implements the 2018 Collective Bargaining Agreement. “Our resolve remains firm,” the union said. “We will not be intimidated by threats or ultimatums. The fight for fairness, dignity, and justice for local government workers continues.”