Story by Arinda Wilfred
In a move that will shock many Ugandans, the Parliamentary commissioners are set to receive another Shs 500 million, this time called an “election package.” The money, which they have awarded themselves again, is meant to help them win the 2026 elections, as communities across the country suffer from real problems.
Our investigation found that these funds were agreed upon after long talks with top executives of parliament and are set to be disbursed before Easter.
The commissioners repeatedly urged that with more cash, they will secure their way back into Parliament. The top heads of parliament agreed the deal in the “spirit of comradeship.” This deal is part of a pattern that has raised serious questions about priorities in government.
Last year, the same commissioners—Hon. Mathias Mpuga, Hon. Afoyocan Esther, Hon. Prossy Akampurira Begumisa Mbabazi, and Hon. Solomon Silwany—decided to award themselves a huge sum of Shs 400 million. And just a week ago, all Members of Parliament, including these commissioners, accepted an Easter package of Shs 100 million. This series of payments is causing anger and distrust among many citizens.
While these leaders add more money to their personal funds, everyday people in Uganda face hard times. Many communities still struggle with poor healthcare, crumbling roads, and a lack of necessary infrastructure. In neighborhoods where water is scarce and schools and hospitals need help, these large bonuses seem out of touch and unfair.
The pattern of handing out self-awarded payments is not only shocking, but it also robs the country of funds that could repair critical services.
