Opposition Leader Joel Ssenyonyi Urges IGG to Investigate UGX 100 Million Payments to MPs

KAMPALA, Uganda — The Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, has formally petitioned the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) to investigate allegations that some Members of Parliament (MPs) received UGX 100 million each under questionable circumstances. This call is part of a broader demand for accountability regarding alleged financial improprieties within the Ugandan Parliament.

In his letter to the IGG, Ssenyonyi emphasized the need for a thorough and impartial investigation into these payments, which he claims were disbursed without proper justification. 

He argued that such expenditures raise serious concerns about the misuse of public funds and the integrity of parliamentary operations.This petition follows previous efforts by Ssenyonyi to address financial misconduct in Parliament.

 Earlier, he had written to the IGG, the Director of Public Prosecutions, and other anti-corruption agencies, urging them to probe various allegations, including excessive per diem claims by Speaker Anita Among and irregular staff recruitments.

The IGG had initially indicated an intention to investigate these claims but later suspended the probe, citing ongoing investigations by the Auditor General's office. Ssenyonyi, however, insists on an independent inquiry by the IGG to ensure transparency and accountability.Parliament's Director of Communication and Public Affairs, Chris Obore, responded to these developments by cautioning against disregarding the findings of both the IGG and the Auditor General once their investigations are concluded. 

He emphasized the importance of respecting the legal mandates of investigative bodies and expressed optimism that the truth behind the allegations would be uncovered through these official channels.

The controversy surrounding these payments has sparked public outcry and intensified scrutiny of Parliament's financial practices. As investigations proceed, stakeholders and citizens alike await the outcomes, hoping for clarity and accountability in the use of public resources.