By Leader of the Opposition in Parliament (LoP), Joel Ssenyonyi, has raised alarm over alleged secret cash handouts being distributed to Members of Parliament, particularly those affiliated with the NRM party, and a few selected opposition MPs as “appreciation” for passing the contentious Coffee Bill and as preparation for endorsing a forthcoming amendment to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act.
In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle, Ssenyonyi claimed that each MP is reportedly receiving Shs100 million as a form of “appreciation” for passing the controversial Coffee Bill, and in preparation for an upcoming proposed amendment to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Act.
“We have learnt that there is money which is surreptitiously exchanging hands in Parliament,” Ssenyonyi stated. “They are giving each NRM MP (and a few selected opposition MPs) Shs100m each, as appreciation for the Coffee Bill that was passed”- he stated
Ssenyonyi further warned that this is not just about coffee. The opposition believes the money is also meant to soften the ground for the anticipated amendment to the UPDF Act, which seeks to continue the trial of civilians in military courts — a position recently declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
“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, in spite of the Supreme Court ruling.” This is a direct affront to our judiciary and a dangerous trend for our democracy,” Ssenyonyi added.
This is not the first time Parliament has been dogged by allegations of cash inducements. In previous years, opposition and independent legislators have raised similar concerns about “appreciation” payments or “facilitation” funds tied to specific legislative processes or votes.
The Coffee Bill 2024, passed amidst intense public debate, grants the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) sweeping powers to regulate coffee production and marketing. Critics have warned that it risks overregulating farmers and stifling private sector growth in one of Uganda’s top foreign exchange-earning sectors.
