The Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has issued a strong rebuttal to online media reports alleging misuse of Non-Tax Revenue (NTR) collected by one of its line agency- Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
The ministry’s statement, released on August 5, 2024, addresses concerns raised about the handling and utilization of these funds, clarifying that the claims of financial mismanagement are unfounded.
According to the statement, the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development granted approval earlier this year for the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance to use the funds in question for its activities.
This approval, the ministry asserts, counters the recent allegations suggesting that the ministry had been blocked from accessing or utilizing the NTR collected by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
The Ministry of ICT expressed concern over what it described as malicious online media reports that have misrepresented the situation.
The statement emphasizes that the ministry is committed to the principles of transparency, accountability, and efficient resource management. The officials at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance maintain that all expenditures are managed with the utmost prudence and in accordance with established standards.
Furthermore, the ministry has called on media stakeholders to refrain from defamatory attacks and instead foster constructive dialogue.
The statement underscores the ministry’s openness to sharing information with the public and media, reinforcing its commitment to open government principles. By addressing these issues publicly, the ministry aims to clear up any misconceptions and reaffirm its dedication to proper financial management.
This response comes in the wake of concerns raised about suspicious transactions involving funds allocated for the repair and maintenance of ICT ministry vehicles. Reports suggested that the ministry had incurred significant expenses on vehicle repairs, which led to suspicions of financial impropriety. However, the Ministry of ICT’s statement refutes these claims, asserting that there was no misappropriation of funds and that all financial transactions were conducted in accordance with approved procedures.
In conclusion, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance has taken a firm stance against the allegations, stressing that the approval process for fund utilization was properly followed. The ministry’s response aims to reassure the public and media of its commitment to transparency and accountability while urging a shift toward more constructive and accurate reporting.
