Corruption Allegations Rock Ugandan Parliament: Former MP Raises Concerns
In a statement released on X, Odonga Otto, former Aruu County MP and a prospective presidential candidate for the 2026 elections, criticized the current state of affairs in Uganda, particularly focusing on high-ranking officials like Anitah Among, the Speaker of Parliament, and Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker. Otto remarked, “In a normal country, persons like Anitah Among and Thomas Tayebwa would be removed from their offices, struck off their privileges and immunities, assets impounded, and sent to prison.”
Otto highlighted the issue of financial mismanagement within the Ugandan Parliament, alleging that funds are being misused under the guise of “neutralizing opposition.” He directly addressed President Kaguta Museveni, suggesting that the misuse of funds intended for public welfare is being justified by claiming to counter opposition activities.
Having served as an opposition legislator in the same parliamentary house for two decades, from 2001 to 2021, Otto’s insights carry weight. Despite being ousted in the 2021 general elections, his commitment to transparency and accountability remains steadfast, especially as he contemplates a presidential bid in 2026.
The former MP revealed concerning details about parliamentary decisions, particularly regarding the approval of USD 29 million to be disbursed to 33 companies that purportedly incurred losses in southern Sudan. Otto claimed that only 10 out of the 33 companies received payments, raising suspicions about the allocation process. He pointed fingers at Thomas Tayebwa, alleging his involvement due to his prior business interests in Southern Sudan. Otto stated, “Thomas Tayebwa, who was running a steel company in southern Sudan, knows who was paid and why.”
These revelations shed light on a larger issue of leadership priorities in Uganda. Otto lamented the self-serving nature of some leaders, stating, “We have leaders who put themselves before Ugandans.” Such allegations further erode public trust in the government and highlight the urgent need for accountability mechanisms to be strengthened.
| Allegations Made by Odonga Otto: | |
|---|---|
| Officials Mentioned | Anitah Among (Speaker of Parliament), Thomas Tayebwa (Deputy Speaker) |
| Alleged Misuse of Funds | Funds purportedly used to “neutralize opposition” under the guise of public welfare |
| Disbursement of Funds | Only 10 out of 33 companies received payments, raising suspicions about the allocation process |
| Thomas Tayebwa’s Alleged Role | Alleged involvement due to prior business interests in southern Sudan, raising questions about conflict of interest |


