Speaker Anita Among has broken her silence in response to recent allegations of corruption and spending scandals in Uganda’s Parliament. The accusations came to light through the #UgandaParliamentExhibition, raising concerns about multi billion shilling expenditures in her office. Among addressed these allegations and firmly stated her refusal to provide answers to accusations rooted in hearsay or social media speculation.
Among’s response, delivered amid mounting public pressure, has sparked varied reactions from Ugandan citizens across social media platforms.
Jim Spire expressed a sentiment shared by many, suggesting that Among’s obligation to respond is debatable given the prevailing climate of impunity. The Kampala Journal echoed this sentiment, hinting at the perceived immunity enjoyed by high-ranking officials like Among, owing to influential connections within the executive sphere.
Public Reaction and Commentary
The online reactions to Among’s response were varied. Some echoed sentiments of resignation, suggesting that holding the Speaker accountable may be a futile endeavor. Others pointed out the perceived impunity enjoyed by those in power, citing executive immunity and connections to influential figures. Amidst these comments, there were voices calling for accountability, urging Among to provide clarity on the alleged financial irregularities.
Jim Spire expressed resignation, stating that Among’s evasion of accountability might be expected, while the Kampala Journal suggested that her ties to influential figures could shield her from consequences. Conversely, voices like Calvin Rwatooro highlighted the irony of deflecting questions of public accountability by invoking issues such as homosexuality.
Marion emphasized the importance of legal enforcement to compel Among to answer to Ugandan taxpayers, while Erwate suggested that public opinion already holds a verdict, implying a lack of faith in the accountability process. Prince Bwambale’s comment reflected a sense of defiance towards Among’s perceived arrogance.
Calls for Transparency and Accountability
Amidst the criticism, there were also voices advocating for transparency and accountability. Kabalega lamented the perceived loss of integrity within the parliament, emphasizing the need for honest and open accounting practices. Northman expressed a sentiment of resignation but underscored the importance of historical record in assessing accountability.
Amos referenced Among’s predecessor’s desire to restore parliament’s dignity, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced in achieving this goal. Conversely, Teso Ambassador defended Among, challenging those with evidence to come forward while praising her service to the country.
Musuutwa Joseph drew parallels to historical events, warning of the consequences of unchecked power and financial mismanagement. Kenneth Komakech raised concerns about the manipulation of public discourse around homosexuality to evade accountability, suggesting a larger systemic issue at play.
Anita Among’s response to allegations of corruption in Uganda’s Parliament has sparked a range of reactions from the public, reflecting deep seated concerns about accountability, transparency, and the abuse of power. While some express resignation and skepticism, others continue to demand answers and accountability from their elected representatives.
| Public Reactions | Comments |
|---|---|
| Jim Spire | She doesn’t have to answer. In any case, what can we do? Feel free Mama. |
| The Kampala Journal | With the executive immunity from her godfather, she’s right to feel invincible. |
| Kyaga | That is public office not private property. |
| Calvin Rwatooro | The way homosexuality has become the scapegoat to questions of public accountability is very silly but not surprising. |
| Marion | Let the law force her to respond. She must account to Ugandan taxpayers. |
| Erwate | She doesn’t need to answer, the public have a verdict and history will remember her. |
| Prince Bwambale | Whom do u think u are Anita! The right thing is you give the country correct figures if u feel there any irregularities. You don’t do us any favour. U are paid by the same citizens u are ridiculing! Stop it. |
| Kabalega | I think the parliament host lost all its integrity. When it come to accounting yoselve you hide behind homosexuality then RIP parliament of Uganda. |
| Northman | Nothing less than we expected. But it will be on record and history will prove us right. |
| Amos | The late Oulanya, Among’s predecessor said he wanted parliament to regain it’s dignity but left too early. |
| Teso Ambassador | There’s a group of people who were preparing a motion to censure the Speaker. Where are they? They’ll ran to hibernation. Whoever has facts over the said allegations, present them, otherwise the Speaker is doing a commendable job serving this country with dignity and honesty. |
| Musuutwa Joseph | Absolutism of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette was one of the major causes of the French revolution not forgetting overwhelming taxes imposed on members of the third estate. History is repeating itself right before us. |
| Kenneth Komakech | I hate homosexuality so much but am starting to think it was a decoy from the beginning but it has never been a problem of Ugandans. How it’s being used to escape from accountability by thieves signals something else. Rest in peace JO. |
