In a startling revelation during a parliamentary committee hearing, the Executive Director of the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), David Livingston Ebiru, confessed to offering a bribe of shs100 million to the board members in a desperate bid to secure the renewal of his contract. The dramatic turn of events unfolded during a meeting called to address issues raised in the Auditor General's report for the financial year 2021/2022.
Ebiru's admission came after he received recommendations from the Inspector General of Government (IGG) advocating for his termination due to alleged incompetence. In an attempt to save his position, he resorted to bribery, an act he openly acknowledged before the Parliamentary committee on Commission, Statutory Authorities, and State Enterprises (COSASE).
The board, led by Charles Museruka, Chairperson of the Board, expressed shock and denied any knowledge of the bribery allegations. During the COSASE meeting, some board members vehemently refuted the claims, insisting that it was the first time they had heard of such a matter.
"I categorically deny these baseless claims. I had no knowledge of such a transaction taking place," said Maseruka, dismissing the accusations against him.
In a further twist, Museruka exposed Ebiru's alleged involvement in embezzling shs237 million from a fuel marking program, an act that the Inspector General of Government had reportedly discovered, leading to Ebiru's apprehension along with other staff members.
Consequently, COSASE demanded that Ebiru provide a detailed explanation of his academic credentials and professional experience. Furthermore, the committee decided to hand him over to the police for further interrogation regarding the bribery and embezzlement charges.
The unfolding events have raised serious concerns about the integrity and transparency within the Uganda National Bureau of Standards, as well as the qualifications and conduct of its top leadership.
The COSASE's ongoing investigation aims to uncover the truth and restore confidence in the operations of the bureau. The matter has attracted significant public attention, with citizens calling for a thorough and impartial inquiry to address the alleged corruption and ensure accountability within the organization.
As the situation continues to develop, the UNBS faces a critical moment in its history, prompting stakeholders to closely monitor the parliamentary committee's proceedings and eagerly await their findings.
