KAMPALA — The Attorney General of Uganda has issued new guidance clarifying the status of public officers and civil servants who remain under interdiction while facing criminal prosecution beyond six months.

In a letter dated 25 September 2026 and addressed to all Permanent Secretaries, Accounting Officers and Chief Administrative Officers, Attorney General Dr. Sam Mayanja said an officer facing an ongoing criminal prosecution should remain under interdiction until the criminal case is concluded and results in an acquittal.

The guidance refers to Regulation 38 of the Public Service Commission Regulations, 2009, which provides for the interdiction of public officers where public interest requires it, or where an officer is undergoing disciplinary proceedings or criminal prosecution.

According to the Attorney General’s legal opinion, the expiry of six months does not automatically end an interdiction where the criminal prosecution is still ongoing.

The letter further states that a public officer should not be allowed to regain their position or have the interdiction lifted as long as the criminal prosecution has not ended in an acquittal.

The Attorney General says the opinion is binding on all Ministries, Departments and Agencies of Government.

The guidance has been copied to the Ministers of Public Service, Local Government, and Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

Radio 9FM News — Voice of the East.