The leader of opposition (LOP) Hon
Joel Ssenyonyi has formally invited the Office of the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) to probe alleged cases of corruption in Parliament of Uganda.
For several weeks, in the media, there have been public concerns over claims of corruption, abuse and mismanagement of office by different government officials at parliament of Uganda, and calls for an audit into the administration of the house.
In a letter delivered to the IGG’s office on March 20, 2024 the LOP urged the IGG Hon. Betty Kamya to initiate a thorough and impartial investigation into the matters as provided under Sections 7, 8, 9, and 10 of the IGG Act.
“I am writing to bring to your attention grave and serious allegations of corruption within the parliament of Uganda that require urgent investigation.” Part of Ssenyonyi’s letter reads adding that it is imperative to ensure the integrity of institution of government institutions, and any allegation of corruption must be examined and addressed.
This is a second attempt by the LOP to bring the matter to the attention of the speaker Anita Among following another attempt on Friday last week when his pleas during plenary were dismissed as based on baseless social media allegations.
In the letter, LOP Ssenyonyi highlights specific allegations against the administration of Parliament including but not limited to: embezzlement of public funds, misuse of parliamentary privileges for personal gain, unlawful grant of service awards to the commissioners of parliament and former LOP, irregular recruitment of staff, and irregular award of contracts.
He also highlights the relevant of the audit on parliament underscoring the trust and confidence in the public which are greatly undermined by such allegations. He adds that such allegations pose a significant threat to the democratic principles upon which the nation is built.
“Furthermore, I request that the investigation be conducted transparently with full cooperation from all relevant stakeholders including the speaker of Parliament, clerk to parliament, members of Parliament, government officials and any other individuals implicated in these allegations.
During the period of investigations, Ssenyonyi urges the IGG to demonstrate to the public that justice will be served, and that no one is above the law regardless of their position or status.
Earlier this month, the IGG Beti Kamya, revealed that her office was looking into claims of widespread abuse of office and unethical conduct in Parliament, with a report to be handed to the President.
At the beginning of this week, however, IGG Beti Kamya said her office has stayed a probe into the allegations claiming that another investigating arm, the auditor general’s office, is already looking into the matter and so there was no need for a parallel investigation.
The head of Communication and Public Affairs department, Mr. Chris Obore, said he is happy with Ssenyonyi’s move to invite the IGG, but also advised him to respect the reports of the IG and Auditor General when the investigations are complete.
He said it is good that Ssenyonyi has agreed with the speakers position to have government investigatory bodies that have competences and legal mandates to handle the matter.
