MP Mathias Mpuuga and Speaker Anita Among. PHOTO | COURTESY
KAMPALA, UGANDA – President Yoweri Museveni has directed the Attorney-General, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, to investigate the controversial service awards given to Parliamentary Commissioners, including the Leader of the Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga, and three NRM-nominated Commissioners. The awards, totaling UGX 1.7 billion, were made without the knowledge or approval of the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, or the Parliamentary Commission.
In a letter dated May 3, 2024, President Museveni questioned the legality and morality of the awards, citing the revolutionary principles of the NRM, which frown upon “primitive accumulation of wealth” by public officials. He has also copied the Inspector General of Government (IGG), Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and the NRM Parliamentary Caucus, demanding action on the matter.
The President wants to know if the awards violated the Leadership Code or the Anti-Corruption Act and whether those involved will face legal consequences. The controversy has sparked a national debate on corruption, governance, and accountability, with the opposition and civil society organizations welcoming the President’s move and calling for a comprehensive investigation and accountability for those involved.
The Attorney-General’s response and the outcome of the investigation are eagerly awaited, as this development has significant implications for the integrity and transparency of public office holders in Uganda.
President Museveni’s directive is a move aimed at tackling corruption and promoting accountability, and it is expected to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the controversial awards. The investigation’s findings will likely have significant consequences for those involved and could lead to further action to prevent similar incidents in the future.
