The former Leader of Opposition, Mathias Mpuuga, has welcomed the high court’s decision to uphold the service award of UGX. 1.7 billion given to four parliamentary commissioners, asserting that it vindicated his team’s stance that it was legally sanctioned.
In a media interview held on August 13, 2024, Mpuuga criticized MPs leading the censure against the Commissioners, labeling them as “clueless” about parliamentary rules and practices.
“With the court ruling, I will be informing Ugandans of my next steps, especially regarding those who have attempted to soil my image,” Mpuuga stated.
He urged Ugandans to think critically and not just rely on vocal opinions, suggesting that had they done so, they wouldn’t have engaged in an eight-month campaign to tarnish his reputation over the award.
Mpuuga expressed disappointment in some individuals who, despite claiming to be educated, failed to engage thoughtfully in the discourse surrounding the service award.
Justice Douglas Karekona Singiza delivered the ruling on August 13, 2024, and emphasized the need for accountability in the issuance of service awards.
The High Court upheld a Shs1.7 billion service award granted to four Commissioners of Parliament, affirming that the payment was lawfully approved by Parliament. However, they issued a stern warning regarding abuse of such awards.
“There is a danger of potential abuse of such awards; we urge the reform of such awards to prevent agencies from depleting national resources through excessive service payments, particularly given that the recipients are already well-compensated by taxpayers,” Justice Singiza said.
Justice Singiza also directed Ramathan Ggoobi, the Secretary to the Treasury, to take disciplinary action against the Clerk to Parliament, Adolf Mwesige, over the controversial payments.
The decision comes amid ongoing discussions on the financial practices within Parliament and the implications for Ugandan taxpayers.
