The Uganda Local Government Workers’ Union (ULGWU) has officially called off its planned industrial action following fresh communication from the Ministry of Public Service. The decision comes after Government reassured the union that key issues raised by public servants are still under active consideration and that inter-ministerial consultations are in their advanced stages.
In an official letter dated 13th April 2026, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Service informed the union leadership that Government is working on a final position regarding the concerns raised. The letter emphasized that discussions between different ministries are ongoing and that a final response will be shared in the shortest time possible.
The Government, through the same communication, appealed to the union to suspend any planned strike action. It argued that stopping the industrial action would allow ongoing processes to be completed without disruption. The appeal was made under the provisions of the Public Service (Negotiating, Consultative and Disputes Settlement Machinery) Act, which encourages dialogue and settlement of disputes through consultation.
In response, the General Secretary of the Uganda Local Government Workers’ Union, Hassan Lwabayi Mudiba, informed members to suspend the industrial action. He explained that the union had received Government’s assurance that positive progress was being made on the issues raised by workers. He added that the union remains committed to ensuring that all concerns are fully addressed.
However, the union also made it clear that it will continue monitoring the situation closely. It warned that if Government fails to deliver satisfactory outcomes after the consultations, it may reconsider further action in the interest of its members. This shows that while the strike has been suspended, workers’ demands have not been dropped.
The communication highlights a continued effort by both Government and the union to maintain peaceful industrial relations in the public service. Both sides have expressed commitment to dialogue, with hopes that the ongoing discussions will lead to a lasting solution that benefits public servants across local government.
For now, public servants are expected to return to normal duties as they await the final outcome of the inter-ministerial consultations. The situation remains under close watch as workers hope that their concerns will be fully addressed in the coming days.
