UBOS Chief Stands Firm Amid Census Controversy
By Fredrick Siminyu
Dr. Chris Mukiza, Executive Director of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), is facing intense scrutiny over errors in the 2024 census results.
However, he remains resolute, stating, “Some people are after my neck over errors, but I am going nowhere.”
Mukiza acknowledged mistakes in the census data but emphasized that errors are an inherent part of the process.
“Errors are human and are made every day,” he noted, urging critics to focus on constructive discussions rather than personal attacks.
The UBOS chief expressed frustration at the relentless criticism, saying, “Everybody is on Mukiza’s neck. Why waste time on data? Why not say we want your neck?”
Despite the errors, Mukiza reaffirmed that the census results will remain the official data for Uganda’s national planning until the next census in 2034.
The census report has sparked outrage, particularly among ethnic and religious groups affected by unexpected changes in population numbers.
A notable issue was the misreporting of data for the Bakiga and Bagisu communities, which Mukiza acknowledged and assured had been corrected.
However, dissatisfaction persists, with some questioning the census’s reliability and demanding greater accountability from UBOS.
Mukiza stands firm, defending his leadership and the agency’s integrity, suggesting that personal motives may be driving the criticism.
“Enemies have been hunting me even before I became the ED,” he said, hinting at a larger effort to undermine him.
As the controversy surrounding the 2024 census continues, UBOS remains committed to transparency and accuracy.
