Ugandan MP Denis Sekabira Champions Censure Motion on Service Awards in Parliament

Ugandan MP Denis Sekabira has signed a censure motion aiming to bring the debate on service awards to the floor of Parliament. Sekabira is working to gather 170 signatures to support the motion, which seeks to address alleged corruption and misuse of funds within the Parliament.

The debate over service awards and allegations of corruption within the Parliament has significant implications for governance and accountability in Uganda. The outcome of the motion will influence the political environment and set a precedent for addressing corruption in public office.

The motion, which targets four parliamentary commissioners, has drawn both support and opposition from various MPs. Lwemiyaga County MP Theodore Ssekikubo, another key proponent, is seeking 177 signatures to censure commissioners Esther Afoyochan and Prossy Akampulira Mbabazi. The motion also addresses allegations of a Shs1.7 billion service award received by these commissioners.

Busia Municipality MP Geoffrey Macho has declined to sign the motion, citing the need for proof of accountability. Macho, a member of the ruling National Resistance Movement, emphasized the importance of evidence, stating, 'Bring proof of corruption and a copy will be enough for me to sign. Political parties should strengthen us rather than just dividing us as we approach elections.'

The debate over service awards has sparked a broader discussion on the value and purpose of such recognitions. Proponents like Betty Aol Ochan argue that every Ugandan deserves recognition for their contributions to national development. 'Every Ugandan, regardless of their profession or status, deserves a service award. We all contribute to the country's growth and development in one way or another,' Ochan stated.

Critics, however, believe that service awards should be reserved for those who demonstrate exceptional service and impact. Political analyst D. Mwambutsya Ndebesa expressed concerns that giving awards to all Ugandans would dilute their significance. 'We need to maintain the integrity and value of these awards,' Ndebesa argued.

The motion has faced opposition from some MPs who have attempted to discredit its initiators. Allegations include the creation of fictitious social media accounts and spreading false information. Despite these challenges, Ssekikubo remains optimistic, stating, 'This is the easiest motion that has ever gone through this process... After five days, we had already hit 100 signatures, and I know we shall sail through trying to censure others.'

The censure motion also highlights allegations against Speaker Anita Among, who is accused of corruption, including distributing Shs40m to each lawmaker for passing a supplementary budget. These allegations were brought to light by Bukoto South lawmaker Dr. Twaha Kagabo, who returned the money he claimed was given to him by Among.

As Uganda approaches elections, the debate over service awards and allegations of corruption within the Parliament are likely to influence the political environment. The motion's outcome will serve as a significant indicator of Parliament's stance on accountability and recognition of service.

The ongoing discussion highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in governance. Whether the motion succeeds or not, it has already sparked a national conversation about the value of service awards and the need for integrity in public office.

Key Takeaways

• Ugandan MP Denis Sekabira signs censure motion to address alleged corruption and misuse of funds in Parliament.
• Motion targets 4 parliamentary commissioners, including Esther Afoyochan and Prossy Akampulira Mbabazi, over Shs1.7 billion service award.
• Busia MP Geoffrey Macho refuses to sign, citing need for proof of corruption and accountability.
• Debate sparks discussion on value and purpose of service awards, with some arguing all Ugandans deserve recognition.
• Motion's outcome will influence political environment and set precedent for addressing corruption in public office.