Museveni Announces Major Reshuffle, Appoints 13 New Permanent Secretaries

President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has announced a major reshuffle in the country's public service, appointing 13 new Permanent Secretaries, retaining 16 in their current positions, redeploying 11 others, and retiring 11 from public service. The changes, announced on Monday, November 9, 2026, affect several key government institutions and are aimed at reshaping the leadership of the public service.

Among the newly appointed officials is Emmanuel Freddie Mugunga, who takes up the position of Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister. Maureen Kasande has been appointed to the Inspectorate of Government, while Sheeba Kyobutungi Rujoki has been appointed to the Office of the President, in charge of Science, Technology, and Innovation. Other appointments include Kenneth Akiri to the Ministry of Water and Environment and Barbara Namugambe to the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries.

The President has also appointed Charles Ssentongo as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while Prof. Stephen Akandwanaho takes charge of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. Mark Sseremba has been appointed to the Ministry of Public Service, Eng. Flavia Guto Bwire to the Ministry of Works and Transport, Edith Butuuro to the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, and Aggrey Wunyi to the Ministry of East African Community Affairs.

In addition to the new appointments, 16 Permanent Secretaries have been retained in their current positions, while 11 others have been retained in public service but redeployed to different government offices. The President has also retired 11 Permanent Secretaries, including Pius Bigirimana, Maj. Gen. David Kasura-Kyomukama, Dr. Rose Nassali Lukwago, Bageya Waiswa, Adolf Mwesige Kasaija, and Alfred O. Okidi.

The changes were made pursuant to Articles 99, 172(1)(a), and 174(2) of the 1995 Constitution, which provide for the President's constitutional powers in matters relating to public service appointments and retirement. In a statement released by Presidential Press Secretary Faruk Kirunda, State House said the respective assignments and details of the changes are contained in the official appointment and retirement instruments.

The appointments and redeployments are expected to bring new leadership and perspectives to various government ministries, departments, and agencies. The President's move is seen as an effort to revitalize the public service and improve its efficiency. The changes will likely have a significant impact on the operations of various government institutions.

The list of new appointments also includes Betty Mutesa Cwinya-ai, appointed to the Public Service Commission, and Dr. Edward Sengonzi Damulira, named Clerk to Parliament. With these changes, the President aims to strengthen the leadership of the public service and enhance its effectiveness in delivering services to the Ugandan people.

Key points

• President Museveni has appointed 13 new Permanent Secretaries in a major government reshuffle.
• The changes affect several key government institutions and aim to reshape the leadership of the public service.
• 11 Permanent Secretaries have been retired, while 16 have been retained in their current positions.