Pressure continues to mount on Parliament’s leaders to account for their actions, with calls for a forensic audit of its books getting louder. The country’s Legislature is reeling from explosive allegations of entrenched abuse of office, lavish spending, and potential corruption purportedly fueled by its leadership. This has led to bipartisan calls for action, with ruling party MPs joining the Opposition in demanding accountability.
The scandal erupted with revelations about extravagant ‘service awards,’ including a Shs500 million handshake to a former Leader of Opposition, condemned as corruption. Further outrage followed when it emerged that four other parliamentary commissioners received Shs400 million each in similar awards.
Critics accuse the House leadership of attempting to sweep the scandal under the carpet by abruptly adjourning plenary sittings indefinitely. Calls for the Speaker to recall the House for a debate on the corruption allegations and for a forensic audit by the Auditor General have intensified.
However, the resumption of Parliament was halted by contrary communication from the Prime Minister, who cited the absence of ministers dispatched for constituency programs. The ruling party, largely silent on the matter, faces criticism for perceived interference with Parliament’s independence.
While the Speaker has met with the President to discuss collaboration between the two arms of government, concerns linger over executive interference in parliamentary affairs. Opposition parties and civil society continue to demand accountability, calling for comprehensive forensic audits and constitutional reforms to address systemic issues.
The scandal underscores broader challenges in Uganda’s governance, prompting calls for constitutional review to rebalance power dynamics and strengthen checks and balances. As pressure mounts, the nation awaits concrete actions to restore public trust and integrity in its parliamentary institutions.
