Luwero, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | General David Muhoozi, the State Minister for Internal Affairs, has cautioned Internal Security Officers and village Chairmen against corruption in recommending non-citizens for the upcoming mass enrolment and renewal of National Identification cards.
The National Identification Registration Authority (NIRA) plans to commence the mass enrollment and renewal of National IDs in June of this year. As part of the preparations, NIRA has initiated the sensitization of leaders and other stakeholders.
During a meeting with stakeholders from Greater Luwero Districts, local leaders expressed concerns about the potential enrollment of non-citizens, particularly due to the influx of refugees in the country. With over 1.6 million refugees present, some have settled in towns like Luwero town council.
Luwero District Kadhi Sheikh Ramadhan Mulindwa highlighted instances where refugees have acquired land and established permanent residences, raising fears that they may attempt to bribe area leaders for recommendations and consequently be registered as citizens.
Nakasongola District Kadhi Habibu Kikabi pointed out the reluctance of residents to identify non-citizens, especially if they are landlords, which could facilitate their unlawful acquisition of citizenship.
Gen Muhoozi clarified that village leaders and Internal Security Officers have the responsibility to ensure that individuals registered at the parish level meet the criteria for citizenship outlined in the Constitution.
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He sternly warned against issuing recommendation letters to non-citizens for registration, emphasizing that such actions undermine the sovereignty of the nation.
Rosemary Kisembo, the Executive Director of NIRA, urged officers to prioritize the country’s interests by ensuring the accurate registration of citizens. She also encouraged nationals to report any NIRA official soliciting bribes during the execution of their duties.
NIRA aims to enroll 17.2 million people and renew the national identification cards of 15.8 million individuals through the upcoming mass enrollment exercise.
