Financial Intelligence Unit: Director and Staff Appointment and Confidentiality Agreement

The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) has been established in Kampala, Uganda to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. As part of its operations, the FIU requires a Director and other staff members who will be responsible for ensuring the proper performance of its functions.

Director Appointment

According to a statement released by the Ministry of Finance, Public Service and Economic Planning, the FIU’s Director will be appointed by the President upon approval from the Public Appointments Committee. The Director shall serve a five-year renewable term and must possess recognized qualifications, integrity, and experience in financial or legal matters or law enforcement with a background in financial investigations.

Delegation of Powers

The statement reveals that the Director may delegate powers, duties, or functions to any person subject to terms and conditions specified by the Director. In the event of the Director’s absence or incapacitation, the President may appoint a qualified person to hold office for a term not exceeding six months.

Staff Appointment

The FIU will also have other staff members appointed by the Director, including at least one legal practitioner and another person with a sound financial, economic, or accounting training and experience. These staff members shall be responsible for ensuring the proper performance of the FIU’s functions and attainment of its objectives.

Confidentiality Agreement

In addition to the appointment of staff, the statement emphasizes the importance of confidentiality in the operations of the FIU. All Directors and staff members shall take an oath of confidentiality before beginning their duties and maintain the confidentiality of any matter relating to their duties during and after their relationship with the FIU.

• Any person who contravenes this section commits an offence and is liable to a fine of K100,000 and imprisonment for two years.
• Information obtained by Directors or staff members in the performance of their duties shall not be disclosed except for purposes related to the detection, investigation, or prosecution of unlawful activities, money laundering offenses, or financing of terrorism.

Maintaining Confidentiality

It is essential for the FIU to maintain confidentiality and integrity in its operations to effectively combat financial crimes and protect the country’s economy.