NIRA Identification and Registration Committee New Member Sworn-In, Urged to Maintain Integrity and Fairness.
Earlier, the Acting Registrar Planning, Research & Development, HW John Paul Edoku, presided over the swearing-in ceremony of a new member of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) Identification and Registration Committee at the Court of Appeal Building, Judiciary Headquarters in Kampala.
The newly sworn-in member is Senior Superintendent of Police, Ms. Nafula Stella who was appointed by the NIRA Board in accordance with Section 83(1)(a)(Review of decision of the Authority and appeal) of the Registration of Persons Act, 2015 to adjudicate over matters arising from or related to registration under the Act.
Officer Nafula joins other members of the NIRA Identification and Registration Committee who were sword-in by the Office of the Chief Registrar on 17th October 2023
According to section 83(2) of the same Act, a person who is dissatisfied with a decision of the Committee may appeal to the High Court.
HW Edoku congratulated the new member and expressed confidence in her ability to perform her duties.
He emphasized the importance of the official oath and the oath of Secrecy she took, urging her to serve the citizens of Uganda with fear of God, fairness, integrity, and independence, without fear or favour, or undue influence from any person or authority.
"In deciding the fate of a person, objectivity must prevail. It has serious implications on the security, economic, political, and social welfare of an individual and the country as a whole," he stated.
HW Edoku also highlighted that the functions and powers of NIRA, as outlined in the Registration of Persons Act, 2015, make it one of the key Government agencies, serving the entire population of Uganda.
He added that it is the duty of NIRA Identification and Registration Committee to ensure that all matters brought before or referred to it, arising from or related to the registration of persons, are handled expeditiously, effectively, fairly and independently.
This approach, he noted, is essential to maintaining the peace and security of Uganda as well as promoting economic growth and social welfare of the people of Uganda.
Mr. John Toa Bahemuka (Manager Compliance and Enforcement, NIRA) whore presented the Director Legal and Board Affairs, NIRA at the ceremony congratulated the newly sworn-in member, noting that her willingness to serve in this capacity is a testament to her dedication to the principles of justice and the betterment of society.
He urged her to approach her duties with a commitment to justice and fairness, noting that her decisions will have far-reaching consequences, influencing both individuals and the broader society.
Mr. Bahemuka also noted that the NIRA Committee plays a vital role in ensuring an organized and just society by adjudicating matters related to the registration of persons, and affirmed the Committee’s commitment to the rule oflaw, and protection of the rights and dignity of every citizen.
He added that the responsibilities of the committee are substantial, impacting the lives of citizens and demanding impartiality, diligence, and a deep understanding of legal intricacies.
The ceremony was attended by Ms. Nasasira Tracy (Legal Officer Training, NIRA).
The ceremony was moderated by HW Timothy Lumunye, the Personal Assistant to the Chief Registrar.
Posted 26th, June 2024
