In his recent National Address, President Yoweri Museveni expressed deep concerns over the rampant growth of corruption within the government, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability and effective action from anti-corruption bodies.
Museveni criticized the Inspector General of Government (IGG) and its office for failing to curb corruption among high-ranking officials, highlighting the detrimental impact on the nation.
"Corruption is pervasive in our government, and it's disheartening to see how it continues to hinder our progress. The IGG's office must act promptly when evidence is available. We need these officials to contribute positively to the country, but they should not exploit their positions," Museveni stated during his address on heroes day
Following his address, security agencies have intensified efforts to apprehend corrupt officials, including members of parliament.
On Tuesday morning, a squad of armed police and detectives, in a convoy of four minibusses, arrived at Kira Police Division, where three Members of Parliament spent the night in detention. The detained Members of Parliament are Lwengo District Woman Member of Parliament Hon Cissy Namujju, Bunyole West Member of Parliament Hon Yusuf Mutembuli, and Busiki County Member of Parliament Paul Akamba.
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Their arrest came just days after President Museveni exposed a network of officials in the Ministry of Finance who collude with other government agencies and Parliament to manipulate budgets for personal gain.
"These arrests are a direct response to the President's call for action against those undermining our nation's integrity and economic stability," said a senior police officer involved in the operation.
One of the detained Members of Parliament, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that they were scheduled to record statements regarding their involvement in the corruption scandal.
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"We are here to cooperate with the investigation and provide any necessary information. It's essential for the truth to come out," the MP said.
Museveni's address and the subsequent arrests have sparked widespread discussion and mixed reactions among Ugandans.
Many citizens welcome the crackdown, hoping it marks the beginning of a genuine effort to eliminate corruption from government institutions.
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However, some critics argue that the arrests are politically motivated and question the effectiveness of such measures without comprehensive reforms.
"While these arrests are a step in the right direction, we need to see consistent and unbiased efforts to tackle corruption at all levels. It's not just about individual arrests but about creating a system where corruption is not tolerated," political analyst Lutaaya Tonny.
The President reiterated his commitment to fighting corruption, urging all government officials to uphold integrity and transparency in their duties.
"We must work together to build a better Uganda. Those who abuse their power and exploit the nation will be held accountable," he asserted.
As the investigation unfolds, the nation watches closely to see if this marks a turning point in Uganda's fight against corruption. The involvement of high-profile Members of Parliament and the swift action by security agencies signal a potentially significant shift in addressing this long-standing issue.
