Workers of J4:14 Foundation have taken to the streets, accusing American national J.D. Smith of operating illegally in Uganda since his arrival in 2010. Smith, who has been associated with various organizations over the years, allegedly evaded taxes and exploited local workers, prompting calls for intervention from the American Embassy.
The J4:14 Foundation, which began operations in 2014 but was only legalized in 2021, is at the center of the controversy. Workers claim the organization operated for years without paying requisite taxes, including Pay As You Earn (PAYE). The workers also allege that Smith, the founder, was involved in fraudulent practices, including selling them out to another donor without their knowledge or consent.
The aggrieved employees, who have valid contracts running until 2026, report being informed of their impending dismissal without compensation. “We are being pushed out without pay despite having contracts,” lamented one of the workers during a demonstration.
Further allegations link Smith to illegal entry into Uganda using forged documents. Local collaborators, including an MP identified as Mutono Patrick and his brother Joseph, are said to have facilitated Smith’s operations in the country, including the construction of a hospital in Butebo District and water springs under a separate organization, Holden Uganda.
The workers accuse Smith of using his political connections to silence opposition and safeguard his interests. Despite their protests, police reportedly sided with Smith, reinstating him in the J4:14 Foundation offices and detaining several workers.
“This is unacceptable,” said one protestor. “We need the American Embassy to step in and ensure justice is served. We demand our salaries and an end to this exploitation.”
As the controversy unfolds, many Ugandans are calling for stricter oversight on foreign workers and NGOs to ensure accountability and protection for local citizens.
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