Uganda’s Ministry of Works and Transport has suspended Principal Road Safety Officer Ronald Amanyire in a move that has triggered debate over corruption, whistleblowing and freedom of expression within government institutions. The interdiction follows accusations that the senior officer leaked confidential documents, defied superiors and used social media to attack government programmes.
In a letter dated April 30, Permanent Secretary Bageya Waiswa accused Amanyire of conduct considered incompatible with his office. The ministry claimed the official repeatedly published sensitive government information on his X account, “@amronaldo,” without authorization from responsible authorities.
According to the ministry, the posts contained internal ministry documents and government communications whose publication allegedly violated provisions of the Official Secrets Act and Uganda Public Service Standing Orders. Officials argued that such disclosures undermined trust and discipline within public service.
Amanyire was also accused of failing to execute assignments given by his supervisors. The ministry stated that despite being instructed in December 2024 to prepare and submit a performance plan, he allegedly failed to produce the required work or provide expected outputs over an extended period.
Government further linked the suspension to Amanyire’s outspoken criticism of ministry operations online. Authorities alleged that for more than two years, he used social media platforms to accuse officials of corruption, challenge procurement decisions and question expenditures related to computerized driving permit systems and RAPEX reforms.
The ministry additionally faulted him for criticizing the Intelligent Traffic Monitoring System (ITMS), a flagship government programme aimed at strengthening road safety and vehicle monitoring. Officials maintained that as a senior civil servant, he was obligated to support government programmes instead of publicly discrediting them.
The interdiction letter also cited insubordination, with ministry leadership accusing Amanyire of refusing to attend departmental meetings and continuing to undermine state institutions despite earlier warnings and engagements. The permanent secretary described the conduct as gross misconduct and unbecoming behavior under public service regulations.
But Amanyire has strongly pushed back against the accusations, portraying himself as a victim of retaliation for exposing wrongdoing. In a public response, he said speaking against corruption inside government comes with heavy personal consequences, including isolation and loss of opportunities. He insisted that silence in the face of corruption would amount to betrayal of the country, vowing to stand by his actions even as investigations proceed.
