Bushenyi, Uganda – Former Igara East Constituency Member of Parliament candidate Amanya Andrew, popularly known as Ekyeyerezo, has lauded the Leader of Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, for his principled stance against alleged bribery within Parliament.
Ssenyonyi’s refusal to accept Shs 100 million, reportedly offered to MPs as a “token of appreciation” for the passage of the Coffee Bill and the proposed amendment to the UPDF Act, has earned him significant praise from Andrew and others who see the act as a rejection of corruption.
Reports circulating on social media allege that the money, distributed between 8 pm and 9 pm on April 7th, 2025, from the Office of the Government Chief Whip, was intended to secure support for the controversial legislation.
While many MPs allegedly accepted the funds, Ssenyonyi, currently out of the country, publicly condemned the action. In a statement, he declared, “We’ve learnt that money is surreptitiously exchanging hands in Parliament.
Information reaching us indicates that each NRM MP (and some opposition MPs) received Shs 100 million, ostensibly as appreciation for the Coffee Bill and in anticipation of the proposed UPDF Act amendment, which will allow the trial of civilians in military courts despite a Supreme Court ruling against it. Our country needs a reboot.”
Andrew echoed Ssenyonyi’s concerns, expressing outrage at the alleged misuse of taxpayer funds. He highlighted the irony of MPs, who already receive substantial benefits – including free vehicles, fuel allowances exceeding Shs 50 million annually, generous salaries, life insurance, and housing – accepting such large sums while the majority of Ugandans struggle with poverty.
“It’s absurd,” Andrew stated, “to see individuals enjoying such lavish privileges sharing even more huge amounts of money while our voters cry out for better roads, schools, healthcare, and agricultural improvements.”
Andrew calculated that the reported Shs 55.6 billion distributed amongst 529 MPs and ex-officials represents a staggering sum, especially considering the deplorable state of infrastructure and the urgent need for advancements in agriculture and research. He questioned the ethical implications of such actions and their devastating impact on the nation’s development.
With rumours circulating that Andrew intends to contest the Igara East Constituency Parliamentary seat as an independent candidate, he used this opportunity to urge Ugandans to exercise careful judgment in the upcoming general elections.
He believes that only through informed and conscientious voting can the nation effectively combat bribery, wasteful spending, and the rampant materialism that plagues the political landscape. He urged the electorate to prioritize candidates committed to good governance and responsible stewardship of public resources.
End.
