Former transport minister Captain Mike Mukula has called on the Ugandan government to depoliticize Uganda Airlines Ltd and adopt a commercially focused management approach, stressing that the national carrier must operate as a business, not a political project.
The call follows President Yoweri Museveni’s dismissal of CEO Jenifer Bamuturaki, who has led the airline for nearly five years.
Bamuturaki’s sacking comes amid concerns over financial performance, disputed procurement decisions, and alleged governance lapses, with sources indicating that State House lost confidence in her leadership after repeated operational and audit challenges.
In a post on X, Mukula said the airline “can only succeed if it is run as a commercial airline, not a political project.”
He argued that global experience shows national carriers thrive when governance is professional, decisions are data-driven, and management is insulated from political interference.
Mukula cited Ethiopian Airlines as a practical African model for commercial autonomy, disciplined fleet planning, and strong human capital.
He emphasized that the airline must be fully capitalized to avoid operating in “survival mode” and stop‑start growth.
Mukula recommended strict fleet discipline, suggesting no more than two aircraft types—preferably Boeing—to reduce training, maintenance, and inventory costs while improving reliability and safety.
The former minister also highlighted the need for a fully equipped in-house Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, which would lower operating costs, strengthen technical independence, and create future revenue opportunities.
Leadership, Mukula stressed, is critical. Uganda Airlines requires a CEO with extensive international airline experience, backed by a clear mandate and authority to run the airline commercially.
The management team, he said, should include proven experts in marketing, flight operations, maintenance engineering, and financial control.
Mukula concluded that with professional governance, the right personnel, and minimal political interference, Uganda Airlines could become competitive, credible, and profitable, underscoring that structural reform is essential beyond a simple leadership change.