The Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, is facing more challenges as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) adds to her troubles by imposing sanctions. Alongside her, former Ministers Agnes Nandutu and Mary Goretti Kitutu are also affected by these sanctions.
The UAE has instructed its financial institutions not to engage in any transactions involving Among, Nandutu, or Kitutu. This means that banks and other financial bodies in the UAE are prohibited from conducting any financial dealings with these individuals.
Furthermore, the Central Bank of UAE has directed that any properties owned by the trio in the country should be frozen until further notice. This adds another layer of restriction on their financial activities.
These sanctions come shortly after similar actions were taken against Among, Nandutu, and Kitutu in the United Kingdom. Just a week ago, the UK imposed asset freezes and travel bans on them.
According to the UK’s statement, Kitutu and Nandutu were implicated in the embezzlement of materials from a government-funded housing project. Among was alleged to have benefited from the proceeds of this corruption.
The UK emphasized that corruption carries consequences, and those responsible will be held accountable. The statement condemned the actions of these individuals, highlighting that such behavior has no place in society.
In response to the sanctions, Among has criticized them as politically motivated and described them as a witch-hunt against her. She attributed the sanctions to her involvement in enacting the Anti-Homosexuality Act in 2023.
The Ugandan government expressed surprise at the imposition of sanctions on its politicians and stated its intention to engage with the British High Commission. It emphasized the importance of sovereignty in bilateral relations.
Additionally, there have been implications for Uganda’s participation in the Commonwealth Speakers Conference, with Parliament threatening to withdraw from its current chairmanship of the event.
Very bad leaders. Forever stained now even if sanctions don’t affect her.