The Deputy Speaker of Parliament in Uganda, Hon Thomas Tayebwa, faced backlash from social media users who criticized him for allegedly misusing taxpayers’ money to fund his trips abroad, specifically to watch Manchester United. Over the weekend, Tayebwa, along with his wife and son, attended the Old Trafford match where Manchester United defeated Everton 4-0.
The Ruhinda North MP also shared photos of himself and his family with Manchester United defender Johnny Evans and the club’s former iconic coach, Sir Alex Ferguson. However, shortly after posting these images, numerous social media users flooded his comments, accusing him of squandering taxpayer funds on his extravagant trips that do not serve the nation’s interests.
“I hope this trip benefited Uganda & Ugandans otherwise the tax payer’s money could be just burning,” a social media user wrote.
This prompted Hon Tayebwa to defend himself by saying that not even a single cent of the taxpayers dimes was involved. He added that as a family, they do work for their wealth. Therefore once in a while, they take sometime out to enjoy their hard work.
“No taxpayer money involved here, my brother. We work as a family, and once in a while, we have family time using our personal resources,”Tayebwa replied.
The social media user was still not satisfied. He demanded the Speaker to show proof that he was already going to watch the games in England before joining Parliament. And if not, that definitely means that he’s feasting on the citizens’ money for his own benefit.
“The only way you & him can convince me beyond reasonable doubt is to post his pictures at Old Trafford before he went to Parliament. I will apologize & erase my post instantly.”
Fortunately for the MP, he had the photos stacked in his archives and pulled out one. This was taken in September 2014 two years before he became an MP.
Apparently, most people who know, the Mitooma native, testify that his family is loaded and wealthy. This was evident at the MP’s father’s thanksgiving event held in July this year.
Many dignified figures, from politicians, businessmen, religious leaders, celebrities among others were present. President Museveni also attended and was the guest of Honor.
