The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has strongly denounced recent statements by Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among and Rakai Woman Member of Parliament Juliet Kinyamatama, which condoned corruption. The remarks were made during a gathering in Lwengo district, where both legislators seemingly downplayed the gravity of corruption allegations against several Members of Parliament.
Kinyamatama defended Lwengo MP Cissy Namujju, who is facing allegations of financial impropriety, by suggesting that any misappropriated funds were used for the benefit of the local community.
Speaker Among pledged unwavering support for MPs facing legal scrutiny over corruption allegations, including Paul Akamba, Cissy Namujju, Michael Mawanda, and Ignatius Mudimi.
These remarks, which implied that corruption could be justified if it benefited constituents, have drawn widespread condemnation.
ULS President Bernard Oundo called on both legislators to retract their statements and reaffirm their commitment to fighting corruption. He urged all stakeholders to conduct thorough and independent investigations into reports of high-level corruption, emphasizing the importance of refraining from comments that could undermine the work of accountability institutions and courts.
Oundo highlighted the robust legal framework provided by the Ugandan Constitution to ensure accountability, emphasizing that all public offices are held in trust for the people and that all leaders are answerable to the public.
“The Constitution further mandates exposing, combating, and eradicating corruption and misuse of power by those in political and public offices. The Anti-Corruption Act 2009 also imposes a duty on every citizen to fight corruption and the misuse or wastage of public property,” wrote Oundo.
According to Oundo, the ULS remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting the rule of law, human rights, and good governance in Uganda, condemning any remarks that undermine these efforts. The society’s call for retraction and recommitment to the fight against corruption underscores the importance of upholding integrity and accountability in public office.
