A section of Members of Parliament (MPs) from Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), independent MPs, and opposition parties have reportedly received UGX 100 million (approximately Ksh 3 million) each from President Yoweri Museveni in what is being described as a cash gift. Sources close to the transaction revealed that the money was distributed on the evening of April 7, 2025, with NRM MPs collecting their shares from the Office of the Government Chief Whip at Parliament between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Other MPs, including some from opposition parties, allegedly received their payments at the Nakasero residence of House Speaker Anita Among.
The sources further disclosed that the money was given as a token of appreciation from President Museveni for the MPs' "good behavior" and in response to repeated requests from legislators struggling financially. The move has, however, raised suspicions and questions regarding the use of state resources for political influence.
When reached for comment, Deputy Presidential Press Secretary Faruk Kirunda neither confirmed nor denied the reports. He referred all inquiries to the NRM Parliamentary Caucus. Parliament’s administration has distanced itself from the reported handouts, with Assistant Director of CPA, Grace Gidudu, stating, "I am not aware of anything like that, you are breaking news to me. There are clear channels on how MPs receive their money and besides that, we don’t know anything."
Joseph Sabiti, the Communications Officer at the Office of the Speaker, also denied any knowledge of the alleged cash transaction, reiterating that Parliament follows formal procedures when disbursing funds to MPs.
The reported handout comes at a particularly sensitive time, following the recent approval of the controversial Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Amendment Act by the Cabinet. The amendment is expected to face stiff resistance, especially from opposition MPs, further fueling speculation about the timing of the alleged cash distribution.
Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, confirmed awareness of the cash handouts and expressed concerns about the implications for political integrity. He warned that any MPs from his National Unity Platform (NUP) party found to have accepted the money would face disciplinary action. "We have been hearing about this move by the government to award MPs, especially from NRM and some opposition, basically to thank them for passing the controversial Coffee Bill and preparing grounds for the upcoming controversial coffee amendment," Ssenyonyi said.
The alleged cash giveaway has ignited fresh debate about the transparency of parliamentary processes and the use of state resources to influence political decisions. Critics are raising questions about the ethical implications of using financial incentives to sway lawmakers, particularly in light of the ongoing political tensions surrounding key legislative proposals.
As the controversy unfolds, Ugandans are closely watching for any official statements or investigations into the matter, which could have far-reaching implications for the credibility of the government and the integrity of the legislative process.
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