House of Deals! MPs in UGX 52.9 Billion Cash Bonanza as LC1 Elections Stall Over Lack of Funds!

By Spy Uganda

Kampala – Ugandans are once again questioning the government’s priorities after it emerged that each of the 529 Members of Parliament has received a staggering UGX 100 million in what is being described as a “mobilisation bonanza.”

The total payout, amounting to UGX 52.9 billion, is reportedly aimed at helping MPs “mobilise support for government programs” in their respective constituencies. This massive disbursement comes at a time when the Electoral Commission (EC) is struggling to secure funds to conduct long-overdue elections for Local Council 1 (LC1) chairpersons and other special interest groups across the country.

The revelation has sparked outrage among sections of the public, with critics accusing the government of misplaced priorities and using public funds to pamper politicians at the expense of critical democratic processes.

“How do you explain giving UGX 100 million to each MP when the country cannot even afford to hold LC1 elections?” asked one political analyst. “This clearly shows that we know where our priorities lie – and it’s not with the people.”

“We’ve learnt that there is money which is surreptitiously exchanging hands in Parliament. Information reaching us is that they are giving each NRM MP (and a few selected opposition MPs) 100m shs each, as appreciation for the coffee bill that was passed, and also in readiness for the proposed amendment to the UPDF Act which will seek to cement the trial of civilians in the Court Martial inspite of the Supreme Court ruling. Our Country needs a reboot,” LoP Joel Senyonyi posted.

LC1 elections, which form the backbone of local governance and grassroots service delivery, have not been held since the last cycle expired, and many villages continue to operate under a legal and administrative vacuum. The EC recently told Parliament that it does not have the necessary funds to carry out these elections.

Yet, with no budget for empowering local democracy, billions have mysteriously surfaced for MPs to “mobilise support” – a vague and loosely defined activity that many believe is nothing more than a veiled attempt to grease political wheels ahead of future electoral cycles.

The cash handout also raises transparency and accountability concerns, with no clear framework on how these funds will be used or monitored.

As the gap between the governed and the governing continues to widen, one thing has become painfully clear: when it comes to setting national priorities, the common Ugandan remains at the bottom of the list.