KOTIDO, April 9, 2025 – – Tensions are running high in Kotido district after the Service Commission released a shortlist of applicants for 87 vacant positions, leaving 1,078 hopefuls disappointed.
The commission received 2,171 applications for roles in the hospital, lower administrative units, and Kotido Municipality, but only 1,093 applicants made the cut.
Disappointed applicants have been sending hate messages and threats to commission members, accusing them of bias, favouritism, and corruption in the shortlisting process.
James Emulu, one of the unsuccessful applicants, expressed his shock on social media, stating he had submitted all the required documents, which were duly certified. “I applied with all my documents that were duly certified, but was shocked to find that my name wasn’t on the shortlist,” Emulu said.
Another applicant, who wished to remain anonymous, alleged that top politicians may have influenced the exclusion of certain applicants to pave the way for their relatives.
These claims have sparked concerns about the transparency and fairness of the recruitment process.
However, Kotido District Service Commission Board Chairperson Paul Darlington Lomanio defended the commission’s decision, citing the failure of many applicants to certify all required documents as the main reason for rejection. “Most applicants only certified their university documents, leaving out their UCE and UACE results, which were also required,” Lomanio explained.
Interestingly, two positions [public health nurse and assistant law enforcement officer] attracted no candidates due to their rare requirements. Lomanio urged applicants to carefully review the requirements before applying, emphasising that the commission would not compromise on the set rules.
Lomanio also noted that applicants who feel they were unfairly excluded from the shortlist have the right to appeal, and the commission will review their cases. “If the commission is found to be wrong, administrative adjustments will be made. The commission has assured applicants that the recruitment process will be transparent and fair, with only qualified candidates being selected for the available positions,” said Lomanio.
The Kotido District Service Commission had initially faced challenges, with the approval of its members being deferred to the next council sitting due to irregularities in the appointment process. However, the newly appointed commission members were sworn in, with a stern warning to avoid corruption tendencies.
The controversy surrounding the Kotido District Service Commission’s shortlisting process has raised concerns about the fairness and transparency of recruitment processes. Corruption allegations have plagued district service commissions across Uganda, with many applicants claiming they were forced to pay bribes to secure jobs.
A report by the Inspector General of Government revealed that 225 cases of irregularities in the hiring process were reported between January 2020 and December 2022. These cases included nepotism, extortion, bribery, and interference by politicians.
To address these concerns, the Directorate of Ethics and Integrity has developed anti-corruption policies and proposed reforms to the recruitment process. One proposed solution is the installation of regional service commissions, which would reduce the number of people responsible for recruitment and minimise opportunities for corruption.
The directorate also suggests that the central government, rather than local politicians, should appoint the chairs of regional service commissions. This move aims to reduce the influence of local politics on the recruitment process and ensure that only qualified candidates are selected for available positions.
The controversy surrounding the Kotido District Service Commission’s shortlisting process highlights the need for transparency and fairness in Uganda’s recruitment practices. While the commission has defended its decision, applicants have the right to appeal and have their cases reviewed. The commission’s commitment to transparency and fairness will be crucial in resolving this controversy and ensuring that only qualified candidates are selected for the available positions.
https://thecooperator.news/kotido-district-council-charts-path-to-achieve-development/
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