By The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has urged for a comprehensive inquiry into the allocation of a Shs500 million ‘service award’ to former Leader of Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga, labeling it an “unlawful imposition” on Uganda’s Consolidated Fund. Referring to Article 93 of the Constitution, ULS president, Mr. Bernard Oundo, highlighted that any introduction of new emoluments or adjustments to existing ones must follow a parliamentary process involving a Bill or motion from the Executive arm. The absence of such formal proceedings regarding the contested Service Award emoluments deems them illegal charges on the Consolidated Fund, according to Mr. Oundo’s statement.
Emphasizing the need for adherence to Constitutional and Statutory laws governing the determination of emoluments, ULS called upon Parliament to lead by example in the prudent use of public funds. To address disparities and conflicts of interest in MPs’ emoluments determination, ULS proposed the establishment of an independent Salaries and Remuneration Commission.
ULS urged Parliament and the Parliamentary Commission to openly address the disputed matters and demonstrate commitment to the binding laws concerning MPs’ remuneration. Mr. Oundo stressed the importance of government and public servants upholding accountability, transparency, and the rule of law in all matters relating to public fund administration and officials’ remuneration to foster public trust and ensure responsible use of taxpayers’ money.
This statement follows a disagreement between Nyendo-Mukngwe MP Mathias Mpuuga and National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, with NUP advising Mr. Mpuuga to resign as a parliamentary commissioner due to his involvement in allocating funds to himself and three other commissioners, which they deemed unethical and corrupt. Mr. Mpuuga, however, defended his position, asserting that his two-year service as LOP warranted recognition and reward.
