By Jamillah Kemigisa
Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Nicholas Kamukama Kaine has issued a stern warning against the growing trend of lobbying for national medals, emphasizing that the country’s highest honors must be earned through integrity and selfless service, not political influence.
Speaking at a sensitization meeting on the National Honours and Awards Act, 2001, held at the Bunyangabu District Headquarters, Kamukama condemned politicians and public servants who seek recognition through backdoor lobbying.
“Honors should be earned through selfless service, not requested through connections or lobbying,” he stated.
Kaine urged Uganda’s leaders to focus on diligent, consistent public service as the true path to national recognition. He cited early reporting to duty, unwavering commitment to the public good, and patriotic service as the hallmarks of those worthy of national awards.
Kaine also used the platform to advocate for extending the tenure of RDCs, arguing that many are rotated or dismissed just as they gain meaningful experience and begin delivering results in their regions.
“When RDCs gain experience and understand the dynamics of the communities, they’re either removed or not returned. We should be allowed to serve longer — even if it’s in a different district — to continue contributing nationally,” he said.
The meeting was led by Hajjat Zamina Malole, Chancellor of the Presidential Awards Committee (PAC), who is currently on a regional tour of Western Uganda. Malole emphasized the need to adhere to the law in nominating candidates for national honors.
She cautioned district leaders against leaking nomination lists, noting that premature disclosures have triggered confusion, resentment, and public backlash.
“Premature announcements of nominees only fuel conflict and misunderstanding. The nomination process must be confidential and based on clear guidelines,” she warned.
The event attracted key figures from Bunyangabu District, including the District Internal Security Officer (DISO), District Police Commander (DPC), District CID Officer (DCID), Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), District Health Officer (DHO), Gombolola Internal Security Officers (GISO), and the Mayor of Kibiito Town Council.
Officials at the meeting reiterated that only specific medals are awarded by the Office of the President under the National Honours and Awards Act, 2001. These include:
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1986 Liberation Medal – for contributors to the NRA liberation struggle.
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Nalubaale Medal – for civilians who opposed dictatorship before 1986.
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Luwero Triangle Medal – for those who supported liberation efforts in Luwero.
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Golden Jubilee Medal – for exemplary service in Uganda’s development.
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Damu Medal – awarded posthumously to those who died in the liberation struggle.
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National Independence Medal – for participants in Uganda’s independence fight.
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Civilian Medal – for long-standing, honorable service in civilian roles.
All nominations must pass through the National Honours and Awards Committee and are subject to strict, merit-based vetting, free from political or tribal bias.
During the same meeting, Stephen Rwabuhinga, the GISO for Bunyangabu District, called for increased recognition of uniformed and intelligence personnel, many of whom, he said, serve with great dedication but are often overlooked.
“Many of our soldiers and security officers work tirelessly, yet go unnoticed. Let’s consider them in future nominations,” Rwabuhinga urged.
In response, Hajjat Malole acknowledged that the PAC’s countrywide tour was prompted by widespread public dissatisfaction with how honors are distributed.
“Ugandans have raised valid concerns about favoritism and irregularities. This tour is part of our effort to address those issues and make the process fair for everyone,” she said.
The committee’s regional campaign will continue in Kabarole, Kasese, Fort Portal, and other districts, aiming to raise awareness ahead of upcoming national commemorations, including National Heroes Day.
District leaders were reminded to submit nominations supported by credible evidence and in line with official guidelines from the Office of the President.
Citizens have also been encouraged to report any misuse or abuse of the national honors system to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, as government efforts to restore integrity in the awards process intensify.
