Three Members of Parliament in Uganda appeared before the Anti-Corruption Court in Kampala to face charges related to a budget corruption scandal. The MPs are Yusuf Mutembuli from Bunyole East, Paul Akamba of Busiki County, and Cissy Namujju, the District Woman MP for Lwengo.

Details of the Allegations

The MPs allegedly solicited an undue advantage from Mariam Wangadya, the chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission. The charge sheet indicates that on May 13, 2024, they demanded 20% of the anticipated enhanced budget for the commission. This incident reportedly occurred at Hotel Africana in Kampala.

Court Proceedings

Chief Magistrate Joan Aciro is overseeing the case. The MPs were formally charged with corruption after arriving at the Anti-Corruption Court at around 2:45 pm on June 12, 2024. They have been in police custody since June 10, following their summons to the Criminal Investigations Department in Kampala.

Background

The scandal is linked to the financial year 2024/2025 budget. The MPs are accused of improperly influencing the Budget Committee of Parliament to increase the commission’s budget in exchange for personal gain.

Government Response

President Yoweri Museveni, during his State of the Nation Address on June 6, 2024, vowed to take action against MPs and Finance Ministry officials involved in budget corruption. This case is part of his broader initiative to combat corruption within the government.

Public and Political Reactions

The charges against the MPs have sparked significant public and political discourse. There is growing concern over corruption within Uganda’s legislative processes, and many are calling for stricter measures to ensure transparency and accountability.

In conclusion , the appearance of the three MPs in the Anti-Corruption Court marks a significant step in Uganda’s fight against corruption. The outcome of this case will likely influence future measures to combat corruption within the country’s political system.