Parliament’s appetite for funds seems insatiable as it seeks an additional 125 billion shillings to fuel its already bloated budget, a move that has drawn sharp criticism amidst accusations of lavish spending and financial mismanagement. This demand for more money comes hot on the heels of intense scrutiny from social activists, who have been closely monitoring the legislature’s spending patterns and leadership expenditures.
During a recent plenary sitting on April 12, legislators swiftly endorsed a proposal to boost Parliament’s budget by 125 billion shillings, earmarked for salaries, travel, per diem, and operational expenses for key offices, including those of the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Leader of Opposition, and Government Chief Whip. The adoption of this proposal saw the institution’s budget soar to unprecedented levels, crossing the trillion-shilling mark.
In the same sitting, legislators bluntly rejected a proposal by the Ministry of Finance to slash Parliament’s budget by 78 billion shillings, a move that would have brought the institution’s budget down to 866.8 billion shillings. This rejection underscores Parliament’s steadfast commitment to maintaining its hefty financial allocation despite calls for fiscal prudence.
According to the endorsed report, key parliamentary figures such as Speaker Anita Among, her deputy Thomas Tayebwa, Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua, and Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi require additional funds to facilitate their extensive local and international engagements. The report highlights a perceived shortfall in operational funds, necessitating an injection of 37.685 billion shillings to bridge the gap.
The request for more funds has triggered public outrage, particularly in light of recent revelations regarding the alleged misuse of parliamentary funds. Social activists have unearthed concerning discrepancies in spending, including substantial donations funneled through private bank accounts and questionable allowances paid out for purported overseas trips. Despite mounting pressure, Speaker Anita Among has vehemently opposed any discussion on these matters within the legislative chambers.
The budgetary allocations for key parliamentary offices have witnessed a steady increase in recent years, with the Speaker’s office budgeting 8.2 billion shillings in the previous financial year and even larger allocations in subsequent years. However, these increases have raised eyebrows, particularly amidst ongoing financial scrutiny and allegations of financial impropriety.
Efforts by the Executive to rein in Parliament’s spending have been met with staunch resistance, with Speaker Among condemning such attempts as undermining the institution’s autonomy and the welfare of its members.
Amidst the brewing controversy, calls have emerged for the establishment of a salaries board to regulate legislators’ remuneration, shifting away from the discretionary powers of the Parliamentary Commission.
