The Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) has called for a thorough and transparent audit of Parliament’s expenditure, citing concerns over alleged mismanagement and financial impropriety within the institution. Speaking at a press conference held at the ANT headquarters in Bukoto, party spokesperson Gerald Karuhanga and former Leader of Opposition Winnie Kiiza emphasized the need for accountability and oversight in parliamentary affairs.
Karuhanga emphasized the importance of conducting a comprehensive audit of both Parliament and the executive branch, asserting that the transparency of parliamentary spending reflects broader governance practices within the government. He underscored the significance of scrutinizing expenditure practices to ensure value-for-money and uphold public trust.
Recent online protests, led by individuals including Makerere University Don Dr. Spire Ssentongo, journalist Agather Atuhaire, and activist Edwin Toko under the hashtag #UgandaParliamentExhibition, have brought attention to allegations of abuse of office and mismanagement of public affairs within Parliament. These allegations, including fraudulent job lobbying, fictitious trip per diems, and corruption deals among high-ranking officials, highlight the urgency of addressing transparency and accountability issues.
Karuhanga urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to exercise their authority and challenge any perceived wrongdoing within the institution, emphasizing that Parliament is a public, not a private, entity. He expressed concerns over reports of severe consequences faced by MPs who dissent against Speaker Anita Among, calling for a culture of open debate and accountability.
Winnie Kiiza echoed Karuhanga’s sentiments, advocating for constitutional reforms to address institutional deficiencies and enhance accountability mechanisms within Parliament. Kiiza emphasized the need for a fully independent speaker, suggesting public participation in speaker selection to ensure transparency and public trust.
Additionally, ANT criticized President Yoweri Museveni’s approval of a proposal to redevelop Luzira Prison into a five-star hotel by the Chinese Tian Tang Group. Kiiza criticized the lack of consultation and transparency surrounding the decision, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary oversight in major policy decisions.
