Probe Among, Jail Guilty, Seize Assets for Anti-Corruption Credibility

Recent weeks have seen Anita Among, the outgoing Speaker of Parliament, facing a barrage of corruption allegations, dominating headlines for undesirable reasons. These accusations, circulating since 2024 through leaked documents and online exposés, raise critical questions about the government’s commitment to fighting corruption.

While legal principles uphold innocence until proven guilty, the severe sanctions imposed on Ms. Among by the United Kingdom and the United States in 2024, citing her “involvement in significant corruption tied to her leadership of Uganda’s Parliament,” cannot be easily dismissed. The US State Department’s findings, based on evidence gathered by its diplomats, suggest more than mere baseless claims.

Government inaction in 2024, when initial exposés like the “Parliament Exhibition” gained traction, is particularly concerning. The subsequent barring of journalists from parliamentary proceedings and the recent report of Ms. Among purchasing a Shs2.2 billion Rolls-Royce Cullinan have only amplified public scrutiny and led to a police search of her properties.

However, the current probe appears lacks urgency and thoroughness. An investigation should have commenced earlier, focusing on income sources and asset declarations as mandated by the Leadership Code. Furthermore, a genuine anti-corruption drive would extend to all individuals whose assets don’t align with their declared incomes, not just a single high-profile figure. Without a comprehensive investigation into Parliament as an institution, any probe risks appearing politically motivated rather than a genuine pursuit of justice.

The ongoing investigation, particularly following the NRM’s withdrawal of support for Ms. Among’s re-election bid, fuels speculation of political maneuvering. To build public trust, the government must decisively investigate Ms. Among and all other corruption suspects. If guilt is established, culprits must face jail time and have their illicitly acquired assets confiscated, serving as a stark warning against the misuse of public funds.

The author is Musaazi Namiti, a journalist. The original article can be found at https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/probe-among-jail-her-if-guilty-and-seize-her-assets-5470352