Grace Gidudu Appointed Acting Director of Communication at Parliament.
By Skika Reporter.
Parliament has appointed veteran communications professional Grace Gidudu as the acting director of Communication and Public Affairs following the arrest of the substantive director, Chris Obore.
The appointment was made by the Clerk to Parliament pending a decision by the Parliamentary Commission on substantive appointments.
In related changes, Benson Masereka Oniz has been appointed acting Director of Human Resource Management following the arrest of the substantive director, Daniel Adilo.
Gidudu brings extensive experience in institutional communication, having served as Assistant Director for Media Relations. In that role, she coordinated parliamentary media coverage, public information campaigns, and strengthened engagement between Parliament and the media.
She is widely recognised in Uganda’s media and parliamentary circles for her expertise in strategic communication, stakeholder engagement, and public information management.
Her leadership in public communication was recently demonstrated during the induction of newly elected Members of Parliament at Speke Resort Munyonyo, where she urged legislators to communicate responsibly and professionally.
“Avoid comments without facts. Verify facts before going to the media,” Gidudu advised, describing the media as a “double-edged sword” that requires accuracy, preparation, and professionalism.
She also encouraged MPs to use social media responsibly, noting that digital platforms are essential for engaging citizens but should be used in a way that protects both personal credibility and the integrity of Parliament.
The acting appointments come amid ongoing investigations by the Inspector General of Government (IGG) into alleged financial irregularities within Parliament.
Investigators allege that Obore was involved in the embezzlement of Shs5.253 billion as part of a wider probe into the suspected diversion of Shs10.893 billion in public funds between 2023 and 2026. Adilo is also facing charges arising from the same investigations.
Under the Administration of Parliament Act, the Parliamentary Commission is mandated to appoint, confirm, promote, and exercise disciplinary control over parliamentary staff.
The acting appointments are intended to ensure continuity in the operations of Parliament while decisions on substantive appointments are awaited.
As the 12th Parliament begins its work, the Directorate of Communication and Public Affairs is expected to play a key role in keeping the public informed about legislative business, committee activities, public hearings, and national policy debates.
The directorate also serves as Parliament’s primary link with the media, civil society organisations, development partners, and the general public.
Gidudu assumes the acting position at a time when Parliament is working to maintain public confidence while continuing to execute its legislative and oversight responsibilities.
