Public Service Commission boss admits that KCCA’s Director of Physical Planning was unqualified

Public Service Commission boss admits that KCCA’s Director of Physical Planning was unqualified

By Stephen Kalema

Moses Atwine does not have the qualifications to head Kampala Capital City Authority’s department of Physical Planning, the Chairperson of the Public Service Commission has admitted.

Ralph W. Ochan however said he knew about the anomaly but went ahead and appointed Atwine to the post.
Two weeks ago, Atwine told the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (Cosase) that he was not fit to hold the office since he lacked academic qualifications.

Prior to his appointment in May 2017, Atwine was acting director for three years and was part of the transformation team since 2012.

This prompted Cosase to summon Ochan to explain how Atwine was appointed.
While appearing before the committee on Wednesday, Ochan said that he was responsible for appointing Atwine regardless of his academic qualification.

“I take full responsibility for the appointment of Atwine and I’m willing to follow every procedure that this committee demands of me,” said Ochan.
Before the committee responded to his plea, Ochan again asked the committee to give him 14 days to rectify all mistakes that were done while recruiting KCCA’s workers right from the directors to the lowest workers.

“If you could allow me, honourable members, I will have to review the entire structure of KCCA. Other departments where there are no issues (private workers) KCCA will submit all their performance and enrolment reports,” he said.
According to Ochan every KCCA employee who was appointed by his commission will again be examined within 14 days.
However, Cosase chairperson Mubarak Munyagwa asked him to immediately terminate Atwine’s contract since he is not fit to plan for the city.

“We agree with your proposal but I request that it takes place when Atwine’s contract is cancelled,” said Munyagwa.
But Ochan asked the committee to give him time since Atwine’s contract is due to expire on January 20, 2020.

This, members on the committee rejected.
Ochan then asked the committee to give him recommendation on cancelling of Atwine’s contract.
Munyagwa later on tasked him to show up with a document that shows all the job descriptions for all senior staff in KCCA (Directors, Deputy Directors and Managers), the waivers and the minutes of the appointment.