In a recent revelation, Uganda's Parliament has come under intense scrutiny following the disclosure of its budgetary allocations and expenditure. According to a detailed analysis of the House's budget for the current and previous financial years, it has been found that, on average, the Parliament spends a staggering Shs2.6 billion daily. This analysis, conducted by undisclosed sources, has shed light on various aspects of the Parliament's financial operations.
The budget estimates for the 2023/2024 financial year, released by the Parliamentary Commission, indicate a significant increase of Shs30.6 billion compared to the previous year's budget. This increase in allocations has sparked discussions regarding the priorities and utilization of taxpayers' money within the Parliament.
Specific details from the draft budget reveal notable changes in allocations to key offices within Parliament. While allocations to the offices of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker have increased by Shs5 billion and Shs4 billion respectively, the budget for the Leader of the Opposition has decreased by Shs800 million.
The revelation of these budget details comes amidst mounting criticism of Parliament's financial management practices. Agora Discourse, an online platform advocating for public accountability, has been at the forefront of exposing questionable spending by Parliament. Led by Agather Atuhaire, the platform has uncovered significant allocations, including a controversial Shs1.7 billion "service award" granted to outgoing members and commissioners.
Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding the withdrawal of Parliament funds through personal accounts of selected staff, reminiscent of previous financial scandals in government offices. This practice, highlighted by Agora Discourse, raises questions about transparency and accountability in the handling of public funds.
In response to these revelations, Parliament spokesman Chris Obore has defended the expenditures, emphasizing the need to consider the broader context of parliamentary activities. However, critics argue that the lack of transparency and oversight poses a threat to good governance and accountability.
The spotlight on Parliament's budgetary practices underscores the importance of robust financial management and transparency in government institutions. As calls for accountability grow louder, the Ugandan Parliament faces mounting pressure to address concerns surrounding its budget allocation and expenditure.
Uganda’s Parliament, which has 529 elected members and 577 technical staff, on average spends Shs2.6b daily, according to our analysis of the House’s budget for this and the past financial years.
The Department of the Leader of Opposition, whose new occupant is Mr Joel Ssenyonyi, has been allocated Shs3.6b, down from Shs4.4b the previous year. Of this, Shs1b is for casual, temporary and sitting allowances. The Office is also spending Shs24m on advertising and public relations, Shs84.4m on meetings, workshops and seminars, Shs320m on staff training, Shs119m on welfare and entertainment, Shs11m on beddings and clothing.
The LoP’s travels both within and outside Uganda is budgeted to cost Shs1.9b. When asked about why the LOP’s budget was revised downwards when allocations to the Speaker and the Deputy went up, Parliament Spokesman Obore said “each office has a director and each director plans the activities which are funded”.
“They don’t just allocate money. Budgeting is not a constant figure; the funding is done according to each department’s plan and the activity’s urgency,”
