Parliament Faces Renewed Corruption Allegations Over Budget Process

Critics and analysts allege entrenched bribery networks in budget approvals, while Parliament defends itself against claims of systemic corruption.

Political actors and analysts have renewed concerns over what they describe as growing and systemic corruption within Uganda’s Parliament, alleging that budget processes have become vulnerable to financial inducements and informal influence networks.

They argue that what they term a “give-and-take” political culture has weakened anti-corruption efforts, with selective enforcement further eroding public trust in accountability systems.

The debate intensified following remarks by President Yoweri Museveni at the close of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) retreat in Kyankwanzi, where he acknowledged the existence of corruption within Parliament.

He alleged that some MPs on parliamentary committees solicit payments from government agencies in exchange for budget approvals, citing Lwengo Woman MP Cissy Namujju.

Former Kampala Lord Mayor and ex-legislator Erias Lukwago described Parliament as increasingly operating like a marketplace, alleging that official reports can be altered through financial influence.

Former MP Salaam Musumba also claimed that individuals are attached to government agencies to mobilise funds during budget processes to influence outcomes.

Critics further argue that broader political practices have contributed to the problem, including inducements tied to legislative processes, which they say have normalised transactional decision-making in Parliament.

They also questioned the handling of corruption-related cases involving MPs such as Cissy Namujju, Paul Akamba, and Yusuf Mutembuli, arguing that inconsistent accountability has weakened the anti-corruption stance.

However, Parliament spokesperson Chris Obore defended the institution, saying the allegations do not reflect Parliament as a whole and insisting that wrongdoing involves isolated individuals.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) also criticised reports of an alleged Shs 100 million facilitation linked to MPs, questioning its timing amid national priorities.

Political observers warn that Uganda’s anti-corruption drive risks remaining largely rhetorical without consistent enforcement, arguing that selective accountability continues to undermine governance credibility.

Efforts to obtain an official response from Parliament were unsuccessful.

Uganda is estimated to lose up to Shs 10 trillion annually to corruption.