Umukunde Pierrine
In a shocking exposé, allegations of corruption and embezzlement have surfaced involving high-ranking officials within Uganda’s Parliament. Director Finance Adolf Kunoba and Speaker Anita Annet Among stand accused of illegally diverting billions of taxpayers’ money for their personal gain, while staff struggle to receive timely payments.
According to insider accounts, Director Finance Adolf Kunoba has been complicit in funneling public funds to the Speaker, allegedly receiving kickbacks in return. Recent revelations indicate that Kunoba was granted a staggering 800 million Ugandan shillings for a supposed trip to America to visit his family, raising questions about the legitimacy of such expenditures.
Meanwhile, staff members have reported significant delays in receiving their salaries, as funds earmarked for their payments are allegedly siphoned off by the Speaker. The Clerk of Parliament, who is likened to the Speaker’s “handbag,” is also implicated in facilitating the Speaker’s excessive demands, further exacerbating the culture of greed and corruption within the institution.
Furthermore, the Speaker’s blood sister, identified as Esther, has reportedly been employed in the accounts department to ensure strict oversight of payments and manipulate accountability records. It is alleged that Esther falsifies documentation to create the illusion of accountability for the Speaker’s expenditures, despite lacking any evidence of legitimate travel or expenses.
The extent of the corruption is further underscored by reports that the Speaker routinely bypasses accountability measures, with Esther’s complicity in fabricating travel reports and documentation. Despite rules requiring proof of travel, including boarding passes and passport stamps, investigations reveal that the Speaker’s purported trips abroad are often fictitious, with funds disbursed without proper oversight or justification.
The revelations have sparked outrage among the public and calls for swift action to hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Civil society organizations have demanded a full-scale investigation into the alleged embezzlement and corruption within Parliament, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in public office.
As the scandal unfolds, the integrity of Uganda’s democratic institutions hangs in the balance. The Speaker and Director Finance face mounting pressure to address the allegations and restore public trust in Parliament. Failure to do so risks further eroding confidence in the country’s governance structures and perpetuating a culture of impunity and corruption.
Makana Kennedy
