KAMPALA – Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) Executive Director, Dr. Chris Mukiza, has expressed frustration over calls for his resignation, citing a minor error in the 2024 Census report.
“Uganda doesn’t appreciate the good statistician they have in me,” Dr. Mukiza stated during a media breakfast in Kampala on Tuesday. “Everybody is on my neck. Why waste time on data? Why not say you want my neck?”
Dr. Mukiza acknowledged errors in the report, specifically the misattributed figures for the Bakiga and Bagisu tribes. However, he emphasized that corrections have been made and the report’s credibility remains intact.
“That you want me to resign, what have I done? Tell me. That because an officer erroneously switched the numbers, and you end up saying that Mukiza must go,” he questioned.
Dr. Mukiza highlighted his upcoming special assignment in Washington, where he will represent Africa, as evidence of his expertise. “You don’t know what you have in Mukiza. In three weeks, I’m going to Washington for a special assignment, and I’m the only one from Africa.”
He warned that if he were to leave, Uganda might end up with an even worse UBOS Executive Director. “I no longer have anyone to pay school fees for, so I might consider leaving. But be careful what you wish for.”
Dr. Mukiza’s comments come amidst criticism over the census report’s accuracy. However, he remains confident in his abilities, citing his international recognition.
“I’m not just a statistician; I’m a good statistician. Uganda should appreciate that,” Dr. Mukiza concluded.
The UBOS Executive Director’s remarks have sparked debate on the value placed on expertise and the challenges faced by public servants in Uganda.
Tags: Dr. Chris Mukiza, Uganda Bureau of Statistics, UBOS, 2024 Census, Resignation Calls, Statistician, Public Service, Uganda News.
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