Uganda Local Government Workers have voiced strong opposition to the government’s plan to begin deducting retirement contributions from civil servants’ salaries before addressing long-standing issues of low pay and salary disparities across the public sector.
Currently, many employees in local governments, along with some in central government, are struggling under tough economic conditions. Their earnings are insufficient to cover basic living expenses, leaving many feeling overlooked, undervalued, and unfairly treated—especially when compared to colleagues in other departments earning more for similar or even lighter workloads. This situation has led to growing frustration and dissatisfaction among workers.
The association insists that the government should first establish and fully operationalize a Salaries Review Commission. This body would assess the existing pay structure, identify imbalances, and recommend equitable salary adjustments for all civil servants.
Improving and harmonizing salaries should come before introducing any additional financial obligations. Workers need fair compensation that reflects both the rising cost of living and the importance of their roles. Only after achieving this balance should retirement contribution schemes be introduced, ensuring they do not place further strain on already stretched incomes.
Implementing pension deductions under the current circumstances is widely viewed as unjust and insensitive. Many workers believe it would only worsen their financial hardships, as some are already struggling to meet basic needs and maintain a decent standard of living.
Uganda Local Government Workers maintain that prioritizing salary improvements will rebuild morale, restore a sense of fairness, and motivate employees. With better pay, workers will be in a stronger position to contribute sustainably to their retirement funds.
They therefore call on the government to address salary inequalities as a matter of urgency before rolling out any new deductions, ensuring fairness, trust, and dignity for all civil servants in Uganda.
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