ICT Ministry Says They Purchased Two Vehicles, Not One at 965m

The Ministry of Information Communications Technology (ICT) and National Guidance has denied reports of purchasing a vehicle for 965 million shillings.

Over the weekend, reports emerged that the Permanent Secretary Amina had authorized nearly a billion shillings for a Land Cruiser LC300 VX. This payment was allegedly made to a city car bond for the vehicle.

Following the reports, the Ministry came underfire by Ugandans especially of social media. Many were referring to such a purchase as extravagant and laced with corruption. It should be remembered that just two weeks ago, a section of youths attempted to march to Parliament in protest of exorbitant rate of corruption.

The controversial purchase, unearthed by the Auditor General, was made on August 31, 2022

ICT Ministry Woes

“Reference is made to the ongoing forensic investigation at the Ministry of Information Communications Technology and National Guidance, covering several aspects including the management of non-tax revenue collected by the Uganda Communications Commission.” wrote James Bantu, Director of Audit – Forensic Investigations and IT Audits.

However, the ICT ministry has since come out to refute the claims of extravagance. In a press release dated August 4, the Ministry referred to the media reports as fake news.

“Contrary to allegations made therein [in the media reports] that a single vehicle was procured at UGX 965 million, it is crucial to clarify that the ministry procured two vehicles and not one.” the ICT Ministry stated.

They also expressed their commitment to adhering to guidelines set by the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets. The vehicles they say were purchased are registered as UG 0057N and UG 0058N.

“The purpose of this communication is to request the following information that has not been provided to date: all payment instructions, payment vouchers, and related accountabilities relating to transactions utilizing the NTR in the financial year 2020/21, and all procurement records regarding the transactions listed in Appendix 2a, 2b, and 2c.” Bantu wrote.