Hidden Crisis? Toxic Culture Allegations Rock URA As Parliament Probes Massive Staff Resignations

By Our Reporter

The Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities, and State Enterprises (COSASE) has urged the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) to address staff grievances to foster a harmonious workplace, following concerns about a reported staff exodus. The call came during a September 3, 2025, interface with URA officials, who were responding to queries from the December 2024 Auditor General’s report.

Rushenyi County MP Naome Kabasharira pressed URA Commissioner General John Musinguzi to investigate the reasons behind staff resignations, citing concerns about a toxic work environment. “You need to go back to the drawing board and check why people are resigning,” Kabasharira said. “We hear your staff are scared to make decisions, fearing dismissal. If children run when their father arrives, there’s a problem.”

COSASE Chairperson Medard Sseggona challenged Musinguzi on media reports alleging URA is a “bad employer” due to frequent resignations. “Are you a bad employer? The turnover suggests commissioners are abandoning work. Why is this happening?” Sseggona asked.

Mukono North MP Fred Kayondo echoed these concerns, noting that resignations have surged during Musinguzi’s tenure. “Your reign has been characterized by many resignations. People were once eager to join URA, but now they’re leaving. This affects us MPs, as these individuals compete for our constituents’ votes,” Kayondo said, questioning if Musinguzi’s leadership constituted a “reign of terror.”

Musinguzi denied claims of a mass exodus, asserting that resignations were driven by personal choices for better opportunities, not a toxic workplace. “Only one commissioner recently resigned for greener pastures, moving to a partnership in a major firm, a career milestone,” he said.

He attributed other staff losses to URA’s anti-corruption efforts, which have led to terminations. “The only punishment for corruption at URA is termination. We’ve lost staff at various ranks due to this, but we’re working to stabilize the institution,” Musinguzi explained.

Kabasharira, however, accused Musinguzi of downplaying the issue, pointing to resignations of senior officials, including the Assistant Commissioners for Domestic Tax and Petroleum. “Those are big fish. Something is not right. Staff fear victimization,” she insisted.

The committee urged URA to conduct a thorough review to address workplace concerns and restore staff confidence, emphasizing the need for a transparent and supportive environment at the tax authority.