AGP Executive Report

Ebola Response: Congo’s Ebola toll is nearing 600 deaths with 1,750+ confirmed cases as health centres strain and contact tracing gaps persist, while Uganda reports cross-border support needs. Public Health Funding & Aid Cuts: Uganda’s refugee crisis is worsening as aid cuts reduce drugs, care and food for about 2 million refugees, with hunger and malnutrition rising. Judiciary & Courtroom Reform: Uganda’s judiciary pushed back on a Uganda Law Society directive banning lawyers from calling judges “My Lord/My Lady” and bowing—saying it will keep demanding courtroom decorum. Anti-Corruption/Legal Risk: Security experts warn procedural mistakes in a money-laundering probe against former Speaker Anita Among—like seizing assets before court orders—could trigger costly legal challenges. Parliament & Opposition: Parliament granted Buyaga West MP Dennis Namara leave to introduce amendments on how the Leader of the Opposition is elected and held accountable. NRM Elections Prep: NRM Electoral Commission urged members to attend village barazas on July 10 to verify LC I and Women Council flag bearers. Foreign Affairs: Government intensified repatriation of Ugandans from South Africa after anti-immigrant unrest, reporting 880 evacuees so far with more expected. Agriculture Skills: Minister Muyingo called for compulsory agriculture education in secondary schools to build practical skills for Uganda’s jobs and food economy. Regional Security/US Ties: Gen. Muhoozi and the US acting ambassador discussed defence cooperation, with travel advisories raised as a hit to Uganda’s tourism. Sports & Governance: Parliament constituted key committees for the 12th Parliament, setting up oversight work.

Election & Parliament Reform: Parliament granted leave for Buyaga West MP Dennis Namara to introduce a Private Member’s Bill to reform how the Leader of Opposition is elected and removed, aiming to make the process more democratic and inclusive. Justice & Rights: The High Court dismissed Dr Kizza Besigye and Hajji Obeid Lutale’s bid to halt their treason proceedings, clearing the way for the trial to start on July 13. Human Rights Commission Crisis: Uganda Human Rights Commission chairperson Mariam Wangadya publicly denied claims that she is under criminal investigation, amid reports of deep internal divisions and corruption allegations. Oil & Courts: Four Ugandan farmers filed a UK High Court challenge seeking to stop EACOP from becoming operational, arguing Uganda’s constitutional, environmental and climate protections should apply to the UK-registered operating company. Ebola Response: Island Pharmaceuticals received approvals to begin compassionate use of Galidesivir for Uganda’s Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak under WHO’s MEURI framework, in partnership with MoH and Makerere’s Infectious Diseases Institute. Cross-border Security & Diplomacy: The AU called for stronger political and financial backing for Somalia’s AUSSOM mission as UNSOS funding faces major disruption. Public Service & Governance: Housing PS Charles Hinga said he faces sentencing in a contempt case and is defending 85 lawsuits linked to the affordable housing programme. Public Safety: Uganda Police investigated a deadly Kampala–Gulu highway bus crash that killed at least 14 people. International Migration: Uganda completed a fourth voluntary evacuation flight from South Africa, bringing total returnees to 730 amid anti-immigrant unrest.

Ebola Response: Uganda will deploy more medics and set up additional Ebola treatment centres in eastern DRC as the outbreak strains hospitals and health workers warn of service disruptions over delayed salaries. Judicial Independence & Court Culture: The Uganda Bar Association has ordered lawyers to stop bowing to judges and to drop colonial-era honorifics like “My Lord,” citing executive interference, delays, corruption, and military pressure on civilians and lawyers. Digital Regulation: UCC announced a nationwide crackdown on unlicensed public Wi‑Fi hotspot providers, warning consumers and operators as it moves to enforce communications laws. Land Governance: Government launched a nationwide Comprehensive Government Land Inventory to document public land in a single database, aiming to curb encroachment, fraud, and disputes. Anti-Corruption Spotlight: Parliament’s communications director Chris Obore and other senior staff face corruption charges, renewing scrutiny on accountability inside key state institutions. Public Finance: Finance and URA plan a major tax collection push to lift Uganda’s tax-to-GDP ratio toward 20% by 2029/30. Regional Politics: A week-long debate on Uganda’s political trajectory highlights concerns about dynastic military rule and opposition resilience.

Ebola Response & Cross-Border Security: Uganda says its recent Ebola spread is contained and is intensifying border support for DRC, including sending medical teams, mobile labs and logistics to strengthen cross-border surveillance. Public Health Research: WHO and partners have started enrolling participants for a new clinical trial targeting the Bundibugyo Ebola strain, where there is currently no vaccine or targeted treatment. Judicial Accountability: Uganda’s High Court ordered a fresh inquest into the 2018 killing of Bobi Wine’s driver, Yasin Kawuma, reopening scrutiny of a politically charged unresolved case. Media Freedom Under Pressure: Uganda’s military has moved against Nation Media Group’s outlets, shutting down stations and raiding offices, with the army chief openly attacking the idea of a free press. Digital Governance: UCC launched a nationwide crackdown on unlicensed public Wi-Fi operators, warning of cybersecurity and data privacy risks. Water & Climate Resilience: Ntungamo’s Ntungamo district received an underground Managed Aquifer Recharge system to store rainy-season water for dry spells. Regional Politics: EAC consultations on a constitution for the East African Political Confederation concluded in Rwanda, with momentum toward deeper integration. Energy & Environment Litigation: Ugandan farmers filed a UK High Court case to stop EACOP operations, arguing Ugandan environmental and climate protections should apply to the UK-registered pipeline company.

Ebola Response: Uganda is getting experimental help for the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak, with Island Pharmaceuticals approved to ship Galidesivir for compassionate use under WHO’s emergency framework—an important step where no approved treatments exist yet. Courts & Accountability: Parliament’s communications chief Chris Obore Ariko moved to the High Court seeking bail over alleged corruption and money laundering tied to mismanagement of over Shs27bn, while former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago also pushed for urgent medical intervention in his treason-related case. Security & Rights: Opposition People’s Front for Freedom criticised President Museveni’s defence of Gen Muhoozi’s crackdown, alleging enforced disappearances and incommunicado arrests. Anti-Corruption & Governance: Former spy master Maj Gen James Birungi was remanded by the General Court Martial on treachery and security-related charges, as media access to proceedings was restricted. Economy & Revenue Loss: URA says Uganda loses over $700m annually to smuggling, blaming porous borders and weak enforcement. Oil & Climate Litigation: Ugandan farmers launched a UK High Court case against EACOP, seeking to apply Uganda’s climate and constitutional laws to the UK-registered project. Public Services: Judiciary urged more use of mediation to settle family disputes faster and cheaper. Local Crime: Police arrested a Kampala-based businesswoman, Hope Tumwebaze, for allegedly defrauding an MP of Shs60m by impersonating an Office of the President official.

Ebola Crisis in DR Congo: The WHO says DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak has passed 500 deaths, with 1,561 confirmed cases and 506 deaths, as health workers threaten strike action over low pay and poor conditions; Uganda reports two deaths and 20 confirmed cases. Uganda’s Border Policy Under Scrutiny: A separate report questions Uganda’s decision to close its border with Congo as a way to stop spread, arguing it may not match public-health best practice. Courtroom Developments: Former military intelligence chief Maj Gen James Birungi was remanded at Makindye Military Barracks on treachery and national-security-related charges, while prosecutors are reportedly preparing a case file against former Parliament Speaker Anita Annet Among. Public Service Pay: Government issued the 2026/27 public service salary structure, keeping scientists and technical professionals prioritized in a larger wage bill. Security & Governance: Uganda Police’s Exodus SACCO carried out a sweeping restructuring that left dozens of staff jobless after positions were declared vacant and staff had to reapply. Economy & Trade: URA estimates Uganda loses over $700m (Shs2.5tn) annually to smuggling and illegal cross-border trade. Energy Progress: EACOP says the East African Crude Oil Pipeline is now beyond 90% completion, moving into final commissioning steps.

Ebola Response: Uganda sent 48 doctors to DR Congo’s Ituri to strengthen the cross-border fight as the Bundibugyo outbreak tops 500 deaths, with WHO-backed experimental trials and new diagnostics underway. Pandemic Treaty Talks: WHO member states restarted negotiations on the missing “how it works” parts of the pandemic treaty, with Ebola adding urgency to Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing disputes. Oil Frontier Grievances: As Uganda pushes toward first oil, Balaalo pastoralists evicted in 2010 say they’re still uncompensated and left out of benefits. Media & Justice Tensions: Uganda Law Society and Daily Monitor co-founder Wafula Oguttu warned against any deal that gives government influence over editorial decisions amid military-led NMG reopening talks; Museveni also defended tighter bail rules, while ULS condemned his remarks as interference in an active Besigye treason case. Corruption & Accountability: IGG probes and court cases continue around Parliament officials, including claims that IDs and permits were used in a Shs675m accounting scheme. EALA NRM Politics: Fred Bangumya and Stella Kiryowa were elected NRM flag bearers for two vacant EALA seats. Public Safety Crackdown: Nyumba Kumi in Amagoro says it will target even chiefs found visiting chang’aa dens.

Karamoja Security: Joint security forces stepped up disarmament in Kotido, using community policing and intelligence tracing after raids like the attack on a gold mining camp in Kaabong left casualties, with officials warning illegal gun holders will face the law. Public Service Pay: Government released the 2026/27 public service salary structure (CSI No. 3), keeping focus on scientists, teachers and technical professionals, with a bigger wage bill of Shs 9.7tr. Opposition Court Clash: President Museveni renewed pressure on Kizza Besigye to face his treason trial, arguing he’s frustrating court processes by refusing to stand trial. South Africa Evacuations: Uganda repatriated 424 nationals from South Africa amid xenophobic unrest, bringing the total to 560 after three Uganda Airlines charter flights into Entebbe. Military Discipline in Somalia: UPDF’s Somalia commander ordered tighter discipline and professionalism as the AU mission faces funding uncertainty. Anti-Corruption Procurement: PPDA said action on the Maybach supplier file is progressing through its processes, awaiting a July 9 board decision. Local Elections Integrity: MPs urged voters to reject LC1 candidates linked to land grabbing ahead of July 28 chairperson elections. Ebola Watch (DRC): Reporting highlighted the worsening Bundibugyo Ebola situation in eastern Congo and ongoing efforts to expand diagnostics and treatment trials. Energy/Industry: Dangote outlined plans for a 700,000 bpd East Africa refinery in Kenya, while Museveni reiterated Uganda’s commitment to regional value addition.

South Africa Xenophobia Fallout: Uganda says another 255 nationals have returned from South Africa, bringing the total evacuated to 560, with reintegration training underway at Entebbe as violence and anti-migrant protests continue. Regional Evacuations: Kenya’s government says its South Africa evacuation will end with a final Johannesburg flight on July 9, urging remaining citizens to register and be vetted. Parliament & Governance: NRM has named three women MPs—Susan Jolly Abeja, Faith Nakut and Jesica Ababiku—to the Parliamentary Commission as the 12th Parliament’s leadership structures take shape. Anti-Corruption Probe: A drivers’ association has petitioned Uganda’s IGG alleging NINs and driving permits were used to account for over Shs675m in public funds linked to Parliamentary Commission activities. Public Finance & Jobs: The World Bank warns Uganda’s construction sector is held back by weak regulation, skills gaps and procurement delays, limiting job creation despite strong growth. Media & Accountability: Uganda’s media shift to digital platforms continues, with journalists using social media to mobilise public action beyond broadcasts. Health: WHO raises alarm over the expanding Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, with Uganda reporting confirmed cases and deaths.

AFCON Hosting Bids: CAF has opened bidding for the 2028, 2032 and 2036 Africa Cup of Nations, inviting all 54 member associations to submit proposals under technical, financial and operational requirements, with PwC and other advisers supporting the process—coming as attention turns to the 2027 AFCON co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Ebola Alarm (DRC–Uganda): WHO says the Bundibugyo virus outbreak is accelerating, with DRC cases now reported above 1,500 and deaths rising past 470, while Uganda has recorded 20 confirmed cases and two deaths; WHO warns insecurity, displacement and weak health systems are making surveillance and response harder. Legal Challenge (Uganda–Muhoozi): Martha Karua has sued Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, over her deportation, citing a Special Practising Certificate and linking the dispute to the Besigye treason defence. Media Crackdown Context: Reports continue to highlight Uganda’s tightening control over media and opposition figures, including court and security actions that are drawing international scrutiny. Health System Pressure (Bududa): State House health monitoring flagged gaps behind maternal deaths in Bududa, citing poor infrastructure, low staffing, inadequate housing for health workers and lack of specialists.

Ebola Surge in DRC: WHO says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo has become the largest on record, crossing 1,400+ cases and 400+ deaths, with Uganda reporting 20 cases as response and diagnostics expand. Health in Uganda’s Districts: State House health monitoring flagged gaps behind rising maternal deaths in Bududa, citing poor infrastructure, low staffing, weak housing for health workers, and limited specialists. Legal Battle Over Deportation: Martha Karua has sued Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba over her deportation, arguing it blocked her constitutional right to represent Besigye and Lutale in court. Cross-Border Security: Uganda evacuated 424 citizens from South Africa amid xenophobic violence; Muhoozi’s remarks drew controversy, but officials urged caution over claims of any order to South Africans to leave Uganda. Media Under Pressure: Commentary and reporting continue to swirl around Uganda’s media crackdown and NTV/NMG shutdown fallout, with calls for accountability and press freedom. AFCON Hosting Process: CAF opened bids for AFCON 2028, 2032 and 2036, with Uganda set to co-host AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Tanzania. Agriculture Support: MAAIF handed climate-smart agriculture vehicles to 69 districts, aiming to improve supervision and technical support for farmers.

Somalia Peace Mission Funding: The US has told the African Union it will block UN funding for the AU’s Somalia mission support office (UNSOS) after AUSSOM’s mandate ends on Dec. 31, 2026—raising fresh concerns for logistics and operations, with Uganda among troop-contributing countries. Ebola Escalation in DRC/Uganda: WHO says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is now the largest on record, with 1,406 cases and 438 deaths, while it also reports a new Marburg case in Uganda; WHO highlights improved follow-up but warns violence and mistrust keep response efforts under pressure. Health Screening Moves: Uganda’s Health Ministry issued an Ebola travel advisory and strengthened border screening as regional countries tighten entry checks. Xenophobic Violence Repatriations: Uganda began repatriating nationals from South Africa amid anti-immigrant unrest; the first group of 273 arrived at Entebbe, with more flights expected. Kyambogo University Rumours: Kyambogo University dismissed social media claims that it will be shut down and converted into a military facility, saying operations are normal. Legal Defence Pressure: Besigye and Lutale told court they will not accept alternative lawyers after alleged moves to disrupt their preferred legal team.

Transport & Accountability: Motor dealers marched to the Ministry of Works and Transport demanding the government cancel a 10-year Russian ITMS contract, saying digital number plates shortages and delays at fitting centres have crippled their businesses. Health Emergencies: Uganda reported a confirmed Marburg death in Kyegewa, while WHO added the first molecular diagnostic test for Bundibugyo virus to its Emergency Use Listing; in parallel, DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak passed 400 deaths as it spreads to new areas. Media Freedom Under Pressure: CPJ urged Uganda to release veteran journalist Timothy Kalyegira, detained over alleged operation of digital outlets without licences, amid wider scrutiny of Uganda’s media shutdowns. Regional Politics & Security: The US said it will block UN funding for AU’s Somalia mission, a move that could affect troop logistics where Uganda is among contributing forces. Citizens Abroad: Uganda began voluntary repatriation from South Africa, bringing home the first 273 nationals as xenophobic violence continues.

Ebola Response & Cross-Border Health: WHO added the first molecular diagnostic test for Bundibugyo virus to its Emergency Use Listing, as DR Congo’s Ebola toll climbed past 400 deaths with cases spreading further; Uganda also reported a Marburg case and health authorities are under pressure to share timely details while regional preparedness ramps up. Public Service Pensions: Uganda will shift from a non-contributory pension to a funded Public Service Pension Fund from 2027, with public officers contributing 5% and government adding 10%. Anti-Corruption Court: Parliament staff including Chris Obore were remanded to Luzira Prison over alleged embezzlement, money laundering and financial loss running into tens of billions of shillings. Media Freedom Under Strain: Uganda’s army chief shut down Nation Media Group outlets, triggering local and international scrutiny and calls for reopening. Regional Integration for AFCON 2027: President Museveni backed a single East African entry visa to ease travel across Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania for the tournament. Agribusiness Exports: Ranchers Finest shipped Uganda’s first processed beef consignment to Ethiopia, signaling a push for value-added livestock exports.

Parliament Corruption Probe: The Inspectorate of Government has arrested seven senior Parliament officials, including Chris Obore, over alleged embezzlement and money laundering, with charges expected at the Anti-Corruption Court. Press Freedom Under Pressure: International legal and civil society groups warn Uganda is violating rule-of-law norms after reports of unlawful detentions and the shutdown of licensed media operations, including Nation Media Group outlets. Ebola & Marburg Watch: Uganda is pushing back on Marburg outbreak claims, even as the DRC reports Ebola cases rising to 1,406 and 438 deaths, with insecurity and community resistance complicating response. South Africa Xenophobia Response: Uganda has set up evacuation centers in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban to repatriate nationals amid anti-migrant violence, with hundreds already processed. AFCON 2027 Logistics: President Museveni backs full government support for Uganda’s co-hosting of AFCON 2027 with Kenya and Tanzania, including a proposed common entry visa. Tourism Incentives: Uganda announces a three-year income tax holiday for qualifying tourism start-ups to attract investment and jobs. Sports Administration: FUFA unveils club licensing core process and timelines for the 2026/27 season, tightening governance and compliance requirements.

Press Freedom Under Siege: Uganda’s army chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered overnight shutdowns of Nation Media Group outlets, including NTV Uganda, Spark TV, KFM, Dembe FM, The East African and Daily Monitor, cutting electricity and triggering fresh local and international backlash. Opposition & Due Process: Former Ethics and Integrity minister Dr. Miria Matembe was granted Shs 3m cash bail (non-cash bond) in her sectarianism case, with court conditions to avoid sectarian statements. Health Alerts: Uganda confirmed an isolated Marburg virus case in Kyegegwa district (a 1½-year-old child who died); Africa CDC says no contacts developed symptoms and there’s no active Marburg case. Ebola Fallout: As DRC Ebola cases top 1,000, UNICEF warns 3 million children remain vulnerable, while UNDP says the outbreak could push nearly one million more into extreme poverty and wipe out jobs. Regional Politics & Power: Analysis argues Uganda’s constitutional order is under stress amid claims of a Muhoozi takeover, while noting formal institutions haven’t fully collapsed. Trade & Industry: Uganda’s sugar industry challenged Kenya’s 300%+ excise duty hike on imported sugar as a threat to EAC trade and export earnings.