An online protest movement exposes corruption in Uganda, rattling officials and the public

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An online protest movement exposes corruption in Uganda, rattling officials and the public

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Abuses of public funds, failing hospitals, and potholes in Kampala’s streets are among the issues highlighted in an online protest campaign causing a stir in Uganda. The campaign, known as #UgandaParliamentExhibition on X (formerly Twitter), reveals leaked official documents detailing controversial topics.

Recent posts focus on Uganda’s National Assembly, alleging misuse of public resources, nepotism in staff recruitment, and collusion between civil servants and lawmakers. Speaker Anita Among, a prominent figure in the ruling party, faces criticism for allegedly receiving large sums in allowance spending for foreign travel, including trips that did not occur.

The campaign claims Among received $894,500 in per diems and entertainment allowances between July and January, an extraordinary amount in a country grappling with budget implementation amid revenue shortfalls. The daily per diem rates for the speaker were reportedly raised from $990 to $4,000 by a parliamentary commission headed by Among.

While Among has not responded to the campaign, the National Assembly’s spokesman acknowledged the concerns raised and pledged to address them transparently.

President Yoweri Museveni’s government, in power since 1986, has been accused of shielding corrupt officials from prosecution. Despite promises to tackle corruption, many Ugandans remain skeptical.

The online protest movement has become a notable platform for exposing specific individuals involved in corruption, given the restrictions on street demonstrations in Uganda. The campaign’s impact highlights the role of new media in shaping governance discussions in a country where civic space is shrinking.

The #UgandaParliamentExhibition also scrutinizes opposition figures, with former leader Mathias Mpuuga facing allegations of receiving a $131,000 “service award” for his parliamentary work. Mpuuga denies any wrongdoing, but another opposition figure accuses him of abuse of office.

The campaign underscores the importance of combatting corruption in Uganda, with voices like popular singer Bobi Wine warning against the destructive effects of corruption on society.