KAMPALA, Uganda: 12 July 2026– The Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) has issued a strongly worded statement condemning what it describes as “arbitrary arrests” and “public humiliation” of engineering professionals working within local governments.
In a formal statement issued on July 11, 2026, and signed by its President, Eng. Peterson Mwesiga, UIPE expresses deep alarm at recent events reported in Bulambuli and Mbale districts. The body alleges that these actions are being instigated by “overzealous” ministers and high-ranking government officials who are creating a “public spectacle” under the guise of fighting corruption.
Supporting the War on Corruption, Condemning the Methods
UIPE, which represents over 12,000 engineering professionals across the country, clarified that it fully supports President Museveni’s renewed crackdown on corruption. However, they believe that turning technical assessments into dramatic, televised arrests at public rallies undermines the very cause it seeks to champion.
The statement calls the current tactics a “mockery” and “theatrical grandstanding.” It argues that complex technical issues, such as the quality of engineering works or the scope of infrastructure projects, cannot be summaries determined by a politician at a public meeting.
Concerns Over Rule of Law and Professional Dignity
A major point of contention for UIPE is the direct role some ministers are reportedly playing in making arrests. The statement (referenced as IMG-20260712-WA0006.jpg) explicitly questions why a minister should act as an arresting officer based only on information gathered at a rally.
”Why do such investigations, if any, not take equal interest in the actual working conditions and political pressure faced by engineers in local government settings?” the UIPE statement asks, suggesting that systemic issues are being ignored in favor of “scapegoating” individual professionals.
The institution warns that these arrests, often made without due process or adequate investigation supported by technical experts, are only serving to demoralize technical staff and will worsen public service delivery.
UIPE to Vindicated Members’ Rights
UIPE has announced that it will not remain silent. The body is launching its own investigations into specific cases of arrested and humiliated engineers and pledges to use its resources to vindicate any abuse of its members’ rights.
The statement serves a strong message: engineering professionals in the civil and public service “shall no longer be soft targets and punching bags for ministers.”
While demanding fair treatment and adherence to legal processes, UIPE reiterated its commitment to supporting the government’s efforts to fight corruption in a “meaningful” and “technical” way. The institution stands ready to offer its engineering expertise to conduct proper, professional investigations into public infrastructure projects.
The current conflict highlights a growing tension between political and technical leadership in Uganda’s infrastructure sector and raises critical questions about the rule of law in high-profile anti-corruption campaigns.
