What you need to know:
- Regarding the disputed payments, Mukiza defended the legality of the honoraria under UIA’s internal policies, explaining that the funds were justified due to the additional responsibilities taken on by UIA staff in lieu of a terminated consultancy contract.
- The investigation, now tasked to the Ministry of Finance and involving the Auditor General, aims to clarify the circumstances under which the honoraria were authorized and disbursed, ensuring compliance with both national regulations and the terms of the international loan agreement.
A highly charged meeting at State House brought emotions to the surface on Wednesday afternoon when President Museveni questioned senior officials from the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA), as well as representatives from the finance and investment ministries, regarding a contentious ‘service award’.
The meeting was convened following controversy over a payment of Shs545 million (approximately $145,000) to UIA executives for their oversight of the Kampala Industrial Park Development project. Director-General Robert Mukiza and UIA’s board, led by Chairperson Morrison Rwakakamba, along with Minister Evelyn Anite and finance officials, faced intense scrutiny from the President.
Tensions peaked when Minister Anite accused Mukiza of malfeasance and misusing public funds, leading to a heated exchange witnessed by President Museveni himself. An emotional Anite broke down in tears during the meeting, pleading for protection and insisting on her innocence while accusing UIA management of deceit.
Following the confrontation, Minister Anite took to social media to express her frustration, alleging attempts to cover up corruption using personal connections.
Regarding the disputed payments, Mukiza defended the legality of the honoraria under UIA’s internal policies, explaining that the funds were justified due to the additional responsibilities taken on by UIA staff in lieu of a terminated consultancy contract.
Despite Mukiza’s offer to refund the controversial payments pending further investigation, President Museveni opted to defer any refund until a thorough inquiry by the Ministry of Finance could determine if there was collusion or legality issues surrounding the honoraria.
The incident occurred amidst broader concerns over the management of a substantial loan from UK Export Finance, earmarked for various infrastructure projects, including those overseen by UIA. Analysts suggest that the President’s urgent summons and subsequent scrutiny of UIA’s financial practices may be linked to pressures to demonstrate accountability and transparency to international financiers.
The investigation, now tasked to the Ministry of Finance and involving the Auditor General, aims to clarify the circumstances under which the honoraria were authorized and disbursed, ensuring compliance with both national regulations and the terms of the international loan agreement.
Do you have a story or an opinion to share? Email us on: info@falconposts.com Or follow the Falconposts on X Platform or WhatsApp for the latest updates.
