Explosive revelations have rocked Ministry of Trade and Cooperatives as Permanent Secretary (PS) Geraldine Ssali has been abruptly removed from her role as the accounting officer amidst scandal that has sent shockwaves through public service.
He removal follows the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury (PSST) Hon Ramathan Ggoobi’s letter to Finance Minister to immediately drop scandal ridden Ssali from the position of accounting officer.
“You are requested to nominate a suitable officer to execute the duties of accounting officer pending investigations,” Reads part of the letter dated October 3, 2023.
This decision means Ssali ceases being a signatory to approves any payment or transaction of the Ministry.
Ggoobi’s letter captures the resolutions of Parliamentary Committee on how Ssali mismanaged funds meant for a supplementary budget for financial year 2021-2022.
She reportedly procured five old cars for Ministry officials at shs 2 billion.
She is being investigated over corruption.
“The Secretary to the Treasury should exercise his authority under section 11(2)g of the Public Finance Management Act of 2015 to withdraw the appointment and designation of Ms Geraldine Ssali as an Accounting Officer of the Ministry of Trade and Cooperatives,” reads Ggoobi’s letter.
In the same vein Tom Opio, a top official has also been blocked from accessing the Electronic Procurement System and Management of the Ministry.
The unfolding drama and allegations surrounding her removal have gripped government officials with many suggesting she has little time before she will be formally kicked out of public service.
These jaw-dropping accusations have not only tarnished her reputation but have also raised questions about her integrity and trustworthiness as a high-ranking civil servant.
The scandal at Ministry of Trade ignited a firestorm of controversy, with other government officials demanding a full-scale investigation and accountability for those involved.
