Kampala: Members of Parliament in Uganda have raised concerns over a potential conflict of interest involving James Kalibbala, a prominent engineer in Kampala. Kalibbala currently serves as the Chairperson of the National Standards Council while also being a member of the Uganda Manufacturers Association (UMA), which the council is responsible for regulating.
According to African Press Organization, Kalibbala, who has 46 years of experience but is not registered under the Uganda Engineers Registration Board, appeared before the Parliament's Committee on Tourism, Trade and Industry. This appearance was part of a broader inquiry into the leadership and governance of the National Standards Council and the Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS).
Committee Chairperson, Hon. Boniface Okot, questioned Kalibbala about his dual roles, suggesting that his position on the UMA Advisory Council could present a conflict of interest given the council's regulatory responsibilities. Kalibbala defended his roles by stating that the council regulates individual businesses rather than the UMA as an institution.
Stella Nyapendi, a council member and legal expert, mentioned that she advises the council on conflict of interest issues but noted that the appointing authority had already made decisions regarding council membership. She added that the specific conflict of interest involving Kalibbala had not been previously addressed due to his position as chairperson.
The committee's scrutiny is part of an ongoing inquiry that began following concerns raised in October 2025 by Bwamba County MP Richard Gafabusa. These concerns were about the National Standards Council's decision to place UNBS Executive Director Eng. James Kasigwa on leave pending an investigation into alleged insubordination. The matter, initially referred to during the 11th Parliament, was revived by a resolution from the 12th Parliament.
During the inquiry, MPs also questioned Kalibbala's use of the title "Engineer," given his lack of registration with the Engineers Registration Board. The committee has requested Kalibbala and other council members to submit their academic credentials for verification.
The examination of the council's composition, qualifications, and external affiliations is expected to continue, as the committee seeks to ensure that the body responsible for overseeing Uganda's national standards system meets the necessary standards.