Africa-Press – Uganda. The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joel B. Ssenyonyi, has formally petitioned the Inspector General of Government (IGG), Beti Kamya, demanding an urgent and thorough investigation into what he described as a major matter of public concern involving a Shs100 million cash “handshake” to Members of Parliament.
The saga, initially met with denials from parliamentary leadership, gained momentum after Bukoto South MP Twaha Kagabo publicly confessed to receiving the money.
In a video clip that has since gone viral, as aired by Sanyuka Television, Kagabo admitted to being a beneficiary, a revelation that has intensified public outcry and renewed calls for accountability.
In his letter to the IGG dated April 29, 2025, Ssenyonyi outlined five critical areas requiring immediate scrutiny. He first demanded clarity on the source of the funds, questioning which government entity disbursed the money and from which budgetary allocation.
“Determine the precise source of these funds. Which Government Ministry, Department, or Agency disbursed this money? What was the budgetary allocation from which these funds were drawn?” Ssenyonyi wrote.
He also raised concerns about the mode and timing of the payments, noting that the disbursements were allegedly made in cash—a practice he described as illegal and an act of grand corruption.
“Investigate the manner in which these funds were disbursed to individual Members of Parliament,” he urged.
“We are particularly concerned about the unusual timing of the alleged payments. This money was paid in cash, something completely illegal and an act of grand corruption.”
Ssenyonyi further pressed for an investigation into the intended purpose of the payments, asking whether there was any legitimate, publicly disclosed reason for the expenditure.
He questioned whether the funds were meant for official parliamentary business, constituency development, or any other authorised use.
Accountability and transparency formed another key focus of the petition. Ssenyonyi called on the IGG to determine whether the payments were made with proper approvals and in accordance with Uganda’s financial regulations.
He also asked for clarity on how the recipient MPs were expected to utilise the funds.
Lastly, he urged the IGG to establish the full list of MPs who received the money, stressing that the substantial sums involved necessitated immediate public disclosure to prevent misuse and restore trust.
“The unusual circumstances surrounding the alleged distribution, particularly the reported nighttime payments, further underscore the need for a comprehensive investigation,” Ssenyonyi noted.
The petition places significant pressure on the Inspectorate of Government at a time when public trust in elected officials remains fragile.
The speed and thoroughness of the IGG’s response will likely determine whether the scandal further erodes confidence in Parliament or leads to meaningful accountability.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
