By John Kusolo
In a significant step towards ensuring accountability and transparency, Allan Mayanja Sebunya, the Member of Parliament for Nakaseke Central and Vice Chair of the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE), chaired a crucial meeting on July 4, 2024. This meeting brought together COSASE members and officials from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to address critical issues highlighted in the Auditor General's report for the financial year ending June 30, 2023.
The Auditor General's report raised several serious concerns regarding the operations of the CAA. These concerns included allegations of abuse of office, the absence of job grades, a lack of a strategic plan, poor management of contract files, and issues related to overflooding at the airport. The COSASE meeting was convened to provide CAA officials an opportunity to respond to these allegations and present their side of the story.
*Denial of Irregularities by CAA*
During the meeting, CAA officials staunchly denied all allegations of irregularities. They refuted claims of abuse of office and maintained that their operations are conducted within the bounds of law and regulations. Regarding the absence of job grades, CAA representatives argued that they have a structured human resource framework in place, designed to ensure efficiency and meritocracy.
On the issue of the non-existent strategic plan, the CAA clarified that they have an ongoing strategic plan which guides their operations and future developments. They emphasized that this plan is periodically reviewed and updated to adapt to the dynamic nature of the aviation industry.
Addressing the poor management of contract files, CAA officials acknowledged past challenges but highlighted recent improvements in their contract management system. They assured COSASE that measures have been implemented to enhance the transparency and accountability of their contract processes.
Concerning the issue of overflooding at the airport, the CAA explained that efforts are being made to address infrastructural deficiencies. They pointed out that the recent weather patterns have been unusual and that they are working on long-term solutions to prevent future occurrences.
*COSASE's Stance and Future Actions*
Despite the CAA's explanations, COSASE members remained vigilant and emphasized the need for thorough investigations and accountability. Allan Mayanja Sebunya, in his capacity as Vice Chair, underscored the importance of transparency in public institutions and the role of COSASE in upholding this principle. He affirmed that COSASE would continue to scrutinize the operations of the CAA and ensure that any irregularities are addressed appropriately.
The committee plans to hold further sessions with CAA officials to delve deeper into the issues raised. These future interfaces will be crucial in gathering more detailed information and ensuring that all concerns are comprehensively addressed.
*Moving Forward*
Following these sessions, COSASE will compile a detailed report based on their findings and the responses from the CAA. This report will then be submitted to Parliament for debate. The parliamentary debate will be an essential step in determining the course of action regarding the concerns raised and ensuring that the CAA adheres to the highest standards of accountability and transparency.
The accountability meeting between COSASE and CAA marks a pivotal moment in the oversight of Uganda's aviation sector. It highlights the ongoing efforts by parliamentary committees to ensure that public institutions operate with integrity and transparency. As the process unfolds, the commitment of both COSASE and the CAA to addressing these issues will be critical in restoring public confidence and enhancing the efficiency of the aviation sector in Uganda.
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