Otafiire Slams Parliament’s UGX 20 Billion Regional Sittings as Wasteful

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Kahinda Otafiire, has criticized the leadership of Parliament for their extravagance.

The latest attack by the bush war hero on government expenditure was sparked by the upcoming regional Parliamentary sittings. On May 16, the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, announced plans to hold regional Parliamentary sittings. With the intent of bringing the House closer to the people, Parliament earmarked Gulu, Masaka, Mbarara, and Mbale cities to host the first-ever Parliamentary sessions outside Kampala.

As the first regional sitting at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu approaches on August 28th, Parliament has faced criticism for this decision, as each sitting is expected to cost the taxpayer UGX 5 billion, amounting to a cumulative figure of UGX 20 billion. Ruhinda South County MP, Gen. Kahinda Otafiire, added his voice to those opposing the sittings.

“I have heard that Parliament wants to waste our money on regional sittings in Gulu and other areas. Where will over 550 members of Parliament, along with their drivers and others, sleep? You want the taxpayers, after paying taxes, to fund your trips to Gulu, Mbarara, and other areas. How many hotels are there to accommodate all of you?” Kahinda Otafiire asked.

According to Otafiire, the sittings will not comprehensively solve any of the issues affecting the regions. He cautioned Parliament that these actions appear to be serving personal interests.

“Whoever brought the idea of Parliament regional sittings wants to divert us from the real issues so they can take advantage of it, but some of us will remain focused.” he said.

This wasn’t the first time the outspoken Minister has expressed his discomfort with the expenditure in Parliament. While speaking at the graduation ceremony of Kampala International University on Saturday, July 14, the retired army General launched a barrage of attacks toward the Speaker. At the time, youth were mobilizing on social media to march to Parliament in protest of reported corruption in the House. He added his voice to theirs by calling upon the youth to reclaim their country.

“You cannot steal and then come and share with us, saying that you stole on our behalf. Did we send [vote for] you to steal? If you are in leadership, you must be upright.” Kahinda Otafiire st the KIU graduation on July 14.