Ministry of Energy’s commissioner, Mr Honey Malinga’s refusal to go for leave has left many raising eye brows in the ministry.
Word has it that the commissioner was supposed to be on leave early last month but he shunned this which left many in the ministry wondering. It is also rumoured that Mr. Malinga apparently contacted the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary – Ms Irene Bateebe claiming he alone was the one still fit for the job and so was seeking an extension.
Mr. Honey Malinga, a veteran of Uganda’s energy sector, has since found himself in the eye of a storm with everyone in the ministry watching his selfish moves.
His refusal to proceed on leave, was one of the key notes that got everyone confirming the rumor of his supposedly move as far as snubbing his retirement.
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What’s more in a surprising twist, is that Malinga has written to the Permanent Secretary requesting an extension of his tenure.
When this website tried to reached him he was quick to snub the rumours, saying that the only letter he has written was addressed to the Ministry of Public Service asking “what was in store for him since his retirement was getting closer”
Malinga confirmed in a phone call that his retirement was due in December of this very year 2024.
Malinga’s impressive career spans over three decades, having joined the Ministry of Energy in 1992 and risen through the ranks to become Commissioner Petroleum Exploration Development and Production.
His expertise and knowledge of the sector are undeniable, but the controversy surrounding his extended stay has cast a shadow over his legacy.
Just like UBOS boss who recently claimed he is the best statician in the country despite jumbled census 2024 results, Malinga also claims that out of over 45 million Ugandans, he is the only person who can handle that docket.
The Directorate of Petroleum, under which Malinga serves, plays a crucial role in coordinating the oil and gas sector to ensure the National Oil and Gas Policy goal of using Uganda’s oil and gas resources to contribute to early achievement of poverty eradication and creating lasting value to society.
With Malinga at the helm, the sector has seen significant progress, including the development and production of discovered oil and gas resources.
However, his refusal to retire has sparked concerns about the ministry’s succession plan and potential power struggles.
This may also cast doubts on the ministry’s focus to build capacity for staff and adherence to the public standing orders.
Critics argue that his extended stay might hinder the progress of junior officials having failed or deliberately refused to mentor them.
“He’s determined to stay, despite reaching retirement age,” said a senior ministry official, who wished to remain anonymous. “His letter to the PS has raised eyebrows, and many are questioning his motives.”
Malinga’s refusal to leave has sparked concerns about the ministry’s succession plan and potential power struggles.
“This uncertainty is unhealthy for the sector,” observed another energy expert. A smooth transition is crucial for stability and progress.”
As the drama unfolds, stakeholders are watching closely. Will Malinga’s request be granted, or will he finally relinquish his post? Only time will tell. Not so much was confirmed by press time but this is an unfolding story.
Watch this space!