Reports surrounding Christmas indicate that over 500 legislators in Uganda’s 11th parliament received a substantial financial gesture. The nature and purpose of this gesture have sparked debate and raised concerns about transparency and potential ethical implications.
Sources within the parliamentary chambers claim the funds, amounting to Shs100 million per legislator, were distributed in cash rather than through established financial channels. This method of disbursement has raised concerns about accountability and potential misuse of public funds.
The initial revelation of this financial gesture came from Muhammad Muwanga Kivumbi, an MP, and was further amplified by NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine. Both raised concerns about the budgetary allocation and the potential for undue influence on legislators.
Speaker Anitah Among refuted these claims, stating that the funds were not bribes but legitimate payments related to parliamentary activities. She further challenged the motives behind the accusations and called for an investigation into the matter.
To address concerns about transparency, Speaker Among tasked the Chairperson of the Budget Committee with verifying whether the parliament was included among the entities allocated funds in the supplementary budget.
While the confirmation of some legislators receiving the funds adds further weight to the initial reports, the exact circumstances and rationale behind the distribution remain unclear. The issue highlights the importance of transparent financial practices and ethical conduct within government institutions.
