Retired civil servants petition RDC’s office
Retired civil servants and former primarily school teachers in Bushenyi district have petitioned the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) over delays in receiving their retirement packages and gratuity. The retirees allege that their efforts to access their rightful benefits have been obstructed by the government and the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
During a meeting held yesterday at the RDC’s office, a group of retired civil servants mostly primary school teachers voiced their frustrations. They revealed that despite being retired for over a year, they are yet to receive their gratuity, leaving many in dire financial strains.
George Ahikyiiriza, one of the retirees, lamented that the delays have worsened their living conditions. “We have children in school, many of us have unpaid loans and social welfare support is hard to come by. This situation has left us living miserable lives,” he said.
In response, Bushenyi district CAO Sanyu Phionah explained that the limited funds allocated for the district last financial year approximately UGX 846 million shillings are insufficient to settle all pensioners’ gratuities with about 186 pensioners awaiting payment.
She assured the retirees that she is in negotiations with the Ministry of Public Service and the Ministry of Finance to secure additional funds through a supplementary budget. “If the resources are made available, we will ensure that payments are made promptly,” she stated.
District Deputy RDC William Donanto Katsigazi called on the pensioners to remain patient and urged them to explore agricultural opportunities while awaiting government intervention. “Let us remain calm. The district is working with the relevant offices to resolve this issue,” he said.
