Government has proposed a major salary enhancement for Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), their deputies and assistants in a move expected to cost taxpayers more than UGX29 billion annually.
The proposal was revealed by Alex Byarugaba while presenting the committee report on the 2026/27 Ministerial Policy Statement for the Office of the Presidency before Parliament.
According to the report, government plans to increase the monthly salaries of RDCs from the current UGX2,293,200 to UGX9 million. Deputy RDCs are proposed to earn UGX5 million, up from UGX1,282,369, while Assistant RDCs would see their salaries rise from UGX877,216 to UGX2,695,000.
If approved, the salary review will cost taxpayers an estimated UGX29.078 billion annually on salaries alone.
Byarugaba told Parliament that the salary structure for RDCs and their deputies has remained unchanged for nearly two decades despite the expanding responsibilities of the officials.
“Uganda currently has 146 RDCs, 170 Deputy RDCs and 432 Assistant RDCs whose salaries have not increased in 20 years,” he said.
The proposed increment is part of broader efforts by government to improve the welfare and operational effectiveness of RDCs, who serve as presidential representatives in districts and play a key role in monitoring government programmes, coordinating security and mobilising citizens.
RDCs have in recent years repeatedly raised concerns over low pay, arguing that their earnings no longer match the rising cost of living and the demands of the office.
Supporters of the proposal say better remuneration could improve morale, reduce corruption risks and strengthen service delivery at district level.
However, the proposal is also expected to spark debate amid growing public concern over government expenditure and the widening public wage bill.
Critics have previously questioned the increasing number of RDC offices and political appointments, arguing that the resources could instead be directed towards essential public services such as healthcare, education and infrastructure.
The Office of the Presidency defended the proposed salary review, saying the RDC structure remains critical in supervising government programmes and maintaining security coordination across the country.
Parliament is expected to scrutinise the proposal further during discussions on the national budget for the 2026/27 financial year.
