Members of Parliament, alongside Speaker Anita Among, have voiced vehement opposition to the government’s decision to slash the parliamentary budget by half, as disclosed by Ramadan Ggoobi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, and Secretary to the Treasury, during a recent appearance on a local television station.
Expressing their discontent, legislators, some of whom have openly acknowledged their affluent status within Parliament, are adamantly opposing the budget cut, vowing to resist it by any means necessary. They argue that the reduction in funding will significantly hamper the functioning of Parliament, affecting not only the institution but also their personal finances.
This controversy arises at a critical juncture when Parliament faces intense scrutiny regarding the alleged misappropriation of taxpayers’ money, particularly concerning Speaker Anita Among, who has been implicated as a major beneficiary. Reports indicate that she substantially raised her per diem allowance for foreign trips from $980 to approximately $4000.
The Uganda Parliament exhibition has shed light on various irregularities, revealing instances where junior staff purportedly handled significant sums of money on behalf of Speaker Among for activities labeled as corporate social responsibility.
President Museveni, while inaugurating the Bukedea Teaching Hospital, rebuked those advocating for transparency and accountability within Parliament, dismissing them as agents of homosexuality with ulterior motives.
The motivation behind the decision to reduce Parliament’s budget remains ambiguous, with speculation arising whether it stems from recent revelations of financial mismanagement or was predetermined prior to the exposé.
Criticism towards Ramadan Ggoobi has intensified within the parliamentary corridors, with accusations of disrespect being hurled at him. Some members argue that Ggoobi’s remarks about Parliament’s role in budgeting reflect a lack of understanding and respect for the institution’s authority.
In response to the escalating tensions, Junior Minister of Finance for General Duties, Henry Musasizi, distanced himself from Ggoobi’s statements and extended apologies on his behalf, acknowledging any offense caused to MPs and the Speaker.