The current Kampala City Council Authority (KCCA) pay structure is evidence that the Executive Director is the boss in the city.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
KCCA pay structure
Executive Director: Shs36 million per month.
Deputy Director and other directors: They will earn between Shs22 million and Shs27 million .
Lord Mayor: Shs16.7 million
Deputy Lord Mayor: Will earn Shs11 million
Division Mayors: Shs10.7 million each and their deputies get Shs8.2 million.
Division [LCIII] councillors: Shs3.5 million while district (LC5) councillors earn Shs4.45 million
Office attendant (also least paid staff at City Hall): Shs1.1 million.
KCC PAY STRUCTURE
Under the defunct KCC, the mayor’s monthly salary was Shs2.8 million while division mayors were earning a basic salary of Shs1.8 million.
mnalugo@ug.nationmedia.com
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
GIVEN BASAJJA'S CASE, CAN'T MUSEVENI STOP HIS DIRECTIVES?
Former security agents demand terminal cash
By RISDEL KASASIRA
Posted Thursday, February 23 2012 at 00:00
Former internal security operatives have cried foul over delayed payment of their terminal benefits worth Shs75 billion.
The chairperson of the ex-Internal Security Organisation operatives, Mr Jeff Kiwanuka, told journalists in Kampala yesterday that they would be forced to appeal to the Supreme Court to attach government property if payments are not quickly processed.
“Some of us are sick and cannot even walk. We have no money for treatment. We appeal to government to quicken the process because the situation is getting worse every day,” he said.
At least 900 former operatives were retrenched between 1992 and 1995 and sued government in 2004 over delayed payment of their benefits and won the case.
The court also ordered the government to give each claimant Shs500,000 as general damages for transport, medical allowances plus their terminal benefits.
But in 2006, the former director of civil litigation, Mr Joseph Masiko, petitioned the High Court to review the ruling but court upheld its earlier judgement.
However, in a January 31 letter, President Museveni directed the Attorney General, Mr Peter Nyombi, to expedite the process and pay the operatives.
“This is to direct you to expedite the payment process of the former employees of ISO,” the letter read in part.
Mr Kiwanuka is not aware whether the AG has responded to the President’s letter, but said Mr Nyombi was in touch with their lawyers.
By RISDEL KASASIRA
Posted Thursday, February 23 2012 at 00:00
Former internal security operatives have cried foul over delayed payment of their terminal benefits worth Shs75 billion.
The chairperson of the ex-Internal Security Organisation operatives, Mr Jeff Kiwanuka, told journalists in Kampala yesterday that they would be forced to appeal to the Supreme Court to attach government property if payments are not quickly processed.
“Some of us are sick and cannot even walk. We have no money for treatment. We appeal to government to quicken the process because the situation is getting worse every day,” he said.
At least 900 former operatives were retrenched between 1992 and 1995 and sued government in 2004 over delayed payment of their benefits and won the case.
The court also ordered the government to give each claimant Shs500,000 as general damages for transport, medical allowances plus their terminal benefits.
But in 2006, the former director of civil litigation, Mr Joseph Masiko, petitioned the High Court to review the ruling but court upheld its earlier judgement.
However, in a January 31 letter, President Museveni directed the Attorney General, Mr Peter Nyombi, to expedite the process and pay the operatives.
“This is to direct you to expedite the payment process of the former employees of ISO,” the letter read in part.
Mr Kiwanuka is not aware whether the AG has responded to the President’s letter, but said Mr Nyombi was in touch with their lawyers.
NABILAH SHOULD RE-THINK HER STRATEGIES
Many of us appreciate that there is bad leadership, but the approach to the problem differs. While some people want to show us that they are very concerned, some may not be genuine. Yet even when genuine, there is a level one can go to in being confrontation to security agents. If a stray bullet gets one and he/she is killed, yes, the one who shot may be charged, but the one shot may be dead, and the same will go on. Therefore, it is not a confrontational approach that is civilized enough for us to use. We still have other options. The other time God was good to Nabilah that she survived the accident which she alleges was intentionally staged to see her meet her creator. The other day she is on Oxygen. I think our politicians should stop just showing that they exist. We have a situation on ground to solve, the bad conditions our people go through. It makes a lot of sense sitting with the people and see how to make these better other than a rally which ends up just injuring them without bringing food to their plates while at the same time the Hon MP has a sure package of about shs 15m. I don't advise any useful Ugandan to make a martyr because Museveni shoud go when his/her effort will not make any significant change in people's welfare.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
A4C OFFICIALS HOSPITALIZED AS POLICE SMASH CITY RALLY
Ms Nabilah receives oxygen support at Case Clinic in Kampala yesterday. Photo by Isaac Kasamani
By John Njoroge & Isaac Kasamani
Posted Wednesday, February 22 2012 at 00:00
In Summary
No rally. The police say the rally was barred because the activists were supposed to hold the gathering at Kiwafu and not Katwe.
Forum for Democratic Change leader Kizza Besigye and several other Activists for Change (A4C) officials were yesterday taken to Case Clinic after they sustained injuries following running battles which erupted between police and A4C supporters at a planned rally in Katwe, a city suburb.
Dr Besigye bled profusely from his left leg, after he was hit by fragments of an explosive device that was lobbed in his direction.
New devices
“They are using a new kind of teargas that emits metal fragments on explosion,” dramatist and A4C member Paddy Bitama told this newspaper.
Kampala Woman MP Nabilah Sempala and FDC Women’s League leader Ingrid Turinawe were also taken to the same clinic with injuries to the head and chest.
Ms Turinawe’s vehicle was also vandalised and her personal belongings stolen.
By press time yesterday, Ms Sempala was still on oxygen after losing consciousness, while FDC youth leader Francis Mwijukye was admitted after he was reportedly hit by a rubber bullet on his right leg.
Bad governance
Mr Mwijukye has been crying foul over harsh bail conditions that confine him to his home village in Ankole Sub-region, western Uganda.
He must seek permission when he is travelling out of the region to Kampala to attend court.
Others injured include, Sam Kalule, Shafiq Tebandeke and Abdul Karim Twinomugisha.
“This tells a lot about President Museveni’s government. The manner in which the rally was handled shows the kind of government and security apparatus we are dealing with,” Western Youth MP Gerald Karuhanga told journalists when he visited the injured at Case Clinic yesterday.
The A4C officials had attempted to hold the rally at about 3:30pm yesterday.
“There was a brief exchange of words with police who had a letter, saying the rally was not allowed,” an eyewitness told this newspaper.
Police has, however, blamed the incident on “hooligans” whom they said threw stones at police without provocation. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds.
“That rally was to be held in Kiwafu and not Katwe,” Police Spokesperson Asuman Mugyenyi said.
Mr Mugyenyi said the Katwe rally had been denied twice because the venue was reportedly too close to the Kampala-Entebbe highway and very near a busy market.
Kasangati reacts
News of Dr Besigye’s injuries provoked an uproar in his Kasangati home area, outside the city, with residents temporarily barricading the Kampala-Gayaza road.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
A4C OFFICIALS HOSPITALIZED AS POLICE SMASH CITY RALLY
Ms Nabilah receives oxygen support at Case Clinic in Kampala yesterday. Photo by Isaac Kasamani
By John Njoroge & Isaac Kasamani
Posted Wednesday, February 22 2012 at 00:00
In Summary
No rally. The police say the rally was barred because the activists were supposed to hold the gathering at Kiwafu and not Katwe.
Forum for Democratic Change leader Kizza Besigye and several other Activists for Change (A4C) officials were yesterday taken to Case Clinic after they sustained injuries following running battles which erupted between police and A4C supporters at a planned rally in Katwe, a city suburb.
Dr Besigye bled profusely from his left leg, after he was hit by fragments of an explosive device that was lobbed in his direction.
New devices
“They are using a new kind of teargas that emits metal fragments on explosion,” dramatist and A4C member Paddy Bitama told this newspaper.
Kampala Woman MP Nabilah Sempala and FDC Women’s League leader Ingrid Turinawe were also taken to the same clinic with injuries to the head and chest.
Ms Turinawe’s vehicle was also vandalised and her personal belongings stolen.
By press time yesterday, Ms Sempala was still on oxygen after losing consciousness, while FDC youth leader Francis Mwijukye was admitted after he was reportedly hit by a rubber bullet on his right leg.
Bad governance
Mr Mwijukye has been crying foul over harsh bail conditions that confine him to his home village in Ankole Sub-region, western Uganda.
He must seek permission when he is travelling out of the region to Kampala to attend court.
Others injured include, Sam Kalule, Shafiq Tebandeke and Abdul Karim Twinomugisha.
“This tells a lot about President Museveni’s government. The manner in which the rally was handled shows the kind of government and security apparatus we are dealing with,” Western Youth MP Gerald Karuhanga told journalists when he visited the injured at Case Clinic yesterday.
The A4C officials had attempted to hold the rally at about 3:30pm yesterday.
“There was a brief exchange of words with police who had a letter, saying the rally was not allowed,” an eyewitness told this newspaper.
Police has, however, blamed the incident on “hooligans” whom they said threw stones at police without provocation. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds.
“That rally was to be held in Kiwafu and not Katwe,” Police Spokesperson Asuman Mugyenyi said.
Mr Mugyenyi said the Katwe rally had been denied twice because the venue was reportedly too close to the Kampala-Entebbe highway and very near a busy market.
Kasangati reacts
News of Dr Besigye’s injuries provoked an uproar in his Kasangati home area, outside the city, with residents temporarily barricading the Kampala-Gayaza road.
LEAD US INTO TEMPTATION!
While Uganda's major problem today is President Museveni and his policies which are putting the country is a terrible ditch, it is unfortunate the infrastructure created by his overstay in power. Many schools have the wrong teachers given that qualified teachers get peanuts and would be hawkers are taking on the teaching in some schools as a number of children are unable to go to school, a big shame for the Government at this moment of development and modernization.
I have been shocked though not surprised this morning to hear a Nursery School teacher guide wrongly the children in the Lord's Prayer. She said with emphasis "... Lead us into temptation..." I could not believe that I heard her right, but she repeated the same! This is how far Uganda has sank. There are no worthy systems to check such teachers, as the money that would help such efforts is corruptly stolen as those in power create empires for themselves out of the tax payer money and donor funds as well as loans procured to see development. The outcome is deteriorating education for the children.
The fruits of dictatorship and the much love for one's welfare as opposed to the welfare of the majority has left Uganda in a sorry state courtesy of Museveni's long stay and "I know it all attitude!"
It is only God who will turn events around in Uganda.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
THE LORD'S PRAYER
Our Father who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
[The 1928 BCP adds:
For thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
for ever and ever.]
Amen.
I have been shocked though not surprised this morning to hear a Nursery School teacher guide wrongly the children in the Lord's Prayer. She said with emphasis "... Lead us into temptation..." I could not believe that I heard her right, but she repeated the same! This is how far Uganda has sank. There are no worthy systems to check such teachers, as the money that would help such efforts is corruptly stolen as those in power create empires for themselves out of the tax payer money and donor funds as well as loans procured to see development. The outcome is deteriorating education for the children.
The fruits of dictatorship and the much love for one's welfare as opposed to the welfare of the majority has left Uganda in a sorry state courtesy of Museveni's long stay and "I know it all attitude!"
It is only God who will turn events around in Uganda.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
THE LORD'S PRAYER
Our Father who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come.
Thy will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
[The 1928 BCP adds:
For thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
for ever and ever.]
Amen.
WHY IS THE NRM GOVERNMENT NOT PAYING WHAT IS DUE IN RENTS TO BUGANDA?
The Budget Committee has thrown out State House Supplementary Budget, however, the question is: When will the NRM Government take the dues in rent arrears to Buganda as a serious matter? We are having a government but at times one wonders whether the NRM is serious or a joker. It does not make sense nor any logic to sit on rent dues when you know very well that you are benefiting from the services of those buildings. It is a scandal for the NRM Government.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
PRESS RELEASE:For all Baganda in consultations with all Ugandans in Diaspora
Posted on November 7, 2011 by ekitibwakyabuganda
PRESS RELEASE:For all Baganda in consultations with all Ugandans in Diaspora
PRESS RELEASE
We the Baganda in the diaspora in consultation with other Ugandans convened on 4th November 2011 at 20-30 London Road, Barking. London (United Kingdom) and resolved to demand what the government of Uganda owes Buganda within a period of sixth months from today.
The acrimony between Buganda and the central Government stems from the failure of the NRM government to honour Buganda’s demands. These demands are part of an agreement between Buganda and the NRA/M reached as a prerequisite for Buganda’s involvement in the 1981 Luweero Bush war.
The resolutions are:
1. Buganda and other regions of Uganda be given full federal status as recommended by the Odoki report where 97% in Buganda and 65% in Uganda demanded for federal status.
2. The central government pays the 23billions Uganda shillings debt it owes Buganda in Rent and returns all Buganda properties including land.
3. The government releases with immediate effect all people detained without charge since September 2009.These include all Ugandans detained during the Kayunga and walk to work demonstrations.
4. The NRM government stops fragmenting Buganda region into unnecessary districts with the ultimate aim of weakening Uganda.
5. The government stops the rampant corruption, nepotism and marginalisation of sections of Ugandans.
6. If these demands are not met within the stipulated six months period, we shall announce the next step.
Signed by:
Chairperson
Richard Smitego
Deputy Chairperson
Mzee Yiga Sempogo
Secretary
Charles Mugagga
BUDGET COMMITTEE THROWS OUT STATE HOUSE BUDGET
By Yasiin Mugerwa
Posted Thursday, February 23 2012 at 00:00
The Budget Committee yesterday refused to approve State House’s request for Shs92 billion in supplementary funding, citing duplication of figures amid heavy criticism of President Museveni’s unchecked spending.
Astonished legislators led by Dokolo MP Felix Okot-Ogong wondered whether President Museveni was aware such “lavish” spending flies in the face of harsh economic realities the country is facing Finding their explanations unacceptable, the committee which is scrutinising government’s supplementaries, threw out ministers and State House officials who they directed to return next Tuesday with a clearer justification for the huge expenditure.
Mr Ogong, who heads the Greater North Parliamentary Forum, said: “The figure from State House is unacceptable. How can we find Shs92b for State House in a short time yet we failed to find Shs75b to increase teachers’ salaries? Let us reject the request for State House.”
Ms Christine Acayo (Nebbi Woman MP) and others pointed out that there were duplications in the money needed for water and electricity. Electricity (Shs180m) is repeated six times, the same with water for an equal amount.
Budget Committee Chairperson Tim Lwanga dismissed the request.
“There is no way we are going to approve this cut and paste. The bill for water cannot be the same as that of electricity. There must be something wrong,” Mr Lwanga said. State House Comptroller Lucy Nakyobe and acting Minister for Presidency Muruli Mukasa, who were appearing together with junior Finance Minister Fred Omach, could not find a sensible response.
Ministries were yesterday appearing before the committee to defend Shs215.6b (a figure representative of 2.09 per cent of total Gross Domestic Product needed to pay for what government calls unforeseen priorities.
State House request
Realising that State House was requesting an increase of 141.62 per cent of their original allocation, Achia Remigio (Pian) reminded Mr Omach that the economy was doing badly, adding that “Parliament cannot authorise the expenditure of 98 per cent on consumption.”
The committee observed that most of the items in the State House budget could have been provided for within the normal budgeting process.
Pleas by Mr Mukasa about the need for the President to meet his constitutional mandate fell flat. “I noted the anguish members expressed over State House budget but State House has a very big mandate to make sure the President performs his duties.”
“The money we receive is too little- we suffer anguish. It has become perennial that the budget proposals we give to finance over the years are not honoured. Most of these items are unforeseen and of emergency nature. The President has to travel and we have no choice,” he unsuccessfully argued.
ymugerwa@ug.nationmedia.com
STATE HOUSE SPENDING JUMPS TO SHS160BN!
By Yasiin Mugerwa
Posted Wednesday, February 22 2012 at 00:00
State House was yesterday unapologetic in the face of Parliament’s dismay at the Presidency’s repeated failure to spend within budget as its expenditure topped Shs160 billion as the country approaches the midway point of the Financial Year.
Latest figures from Ministry of Finance indicate that the State House budget has jumped from Shs66.6 billion approved in September last year to Shs158.5 billion.
Responding to members’ queries over State House’s uncontrolled spending, Secretary to the Treasury Chris Kassami admitted before the Finance Committee yesterday that supplementary requests were an “inconvenience” and a “disruption” of the Budget implementation process.
Mr Kassami told the committee that the government was in the process of amending the Budget Act, 2001 to provide for a 3 per cent allocation for a Contingency Fund to take care of unexpected supplementary requests.
While Parliament is yet to approve a recent Shs91.9 billion State House supplementary request in respect of monies already spent outside budget, Ministry of Finance has released Shs117.2 billion— representing 175 per cent of the total approved budget for State House for the current Financial Year.
Nodding patients untouched
With the Ministry of Health struggling to find Shs7 billion to help thousands of children stricken by the nodding disease which has claimed hundreds of lives in northern Uganda, State House last week tabled a request of Shs91.9 billion in more funding for the Presidency.
But presidential spokesman Tamale Mirundi, was scathing in his response to MPs who have accused the President of extravagance and insensitivity to the sick children in northern Uganda. He likened them to “peasants” whose arguments do not hold worth in a modern society.
Mr Mirundi said those complaining that the President is extravagant are like loud-mouthed parents, tired of paying school fees for their children.
“Nodding disease is not an issue for State House. That falls under Ministry of Health and disaster preparedness. Those MPs who are complaining about President’s expenditure should stop advancing peasantry arguments. State House has not grabbed any money for health and they should stop inciting the public,” he said.
“They should drop that peasantry mentality and think like legislators. They need to be helped to think in a modern way.”
Mr Mirundi said President Museveni’s expenses were a reflection of a working leader, offering accountability to his people.
“Those MPs should stop complaining about the President’s budget. They have a working President who is not a Kabaka. The President must go to every part of the country and travels abroad. He has not used the money to take his children to school. He is not using the money for the wedding of his children. If they don’t want a working President, let then amend the Constitution and have a monarchy.”
Shadow Finance Minister Geoffrey Ekanya once again accused the Presidency of “greed” and perpetuating financial indiscipline at a time when the economy is doing badly wit inflation in double digits.
“It appears impunity is steadily growing and those in power no longer care about those they lead. There is no way President Museveni would swim in billions when the rest of the county is yawning,” Mr Ekanya said. “This is too much, how can State House spend money on special meals and drinks, entertainment, donation, newspapers etc when other Ugandans are sinking in poverty?”
State House’s actions, along with the allegations of financial indiscipline, fly in the face of Section 12(1) of the Budget Act 2001 which allows Ministry of Finance to spend only 3 per cent of total the budget as supplementary expenditure for which it can seek retrospective authority from Parliament. STA
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
PRESS RELEASE:For all Baganda in consultations with all Ugandans in Diaspora
Posted on November 7, 2011 by ekitibwakyabuganda
PRESS RELEASE:For all Baganda in consultations with all Ugandans in Diaspora
PRESS RELEASE
We the Baganda in the diaspora in consultation with other Ugandans convened on 4th November 2011 at 20-30 London Road, Barking. London (United Kingdom) and resolved to demand what the government of Uganda owes Buganda within a period of sixth months from today.
The acrimony between Buganda and the central Government stems from the failure of the NRM government to honour Buganda’s demands. These demands are part of an agreement between Buganda and the NRA/M reached as a prerequisite for Buganda’s involvement in the 1981 Luweero Bush war.
The resolutions are:
1. Buganda and other regions of Uganda be given full federal status as recommended by the Odoki report where 97% in Buganda and 65% in Uganda demanded for federal status.
2. The central government pays the 23billions Uganda shillings debt it owes Buganda in Rent and returns all Buganda properties including land.
3. The government releases with immediate effect all people detained without charge since September 2009.These include all Ugandans detained during the Kayunga and walk to work demonstrations.
4. The NRM government stops fragmenting Buganda region into unnecessary districts with the ultimate aim of weakening Uganda.
5. The government stops the rampant corruption, nepotism and marginalisation of sections of Ugandans.
6. If these demands are not met within the stipulated six months period, we shall announce the next step.
Signed by:
Chairperson
Richard Smitego
Deputy Chairperson
Mzee Yiga Sempogo
Secretary
Charles Mugagga
BUDGET COMMITTEE THROWS OUT STATE HOUSE BUDGET
By Yasiin Mugerwa
Posted Thursday, February 23 2012 at 00:00
The Budget Committee yesterday refused to approve State House’s request for Shs92 billion in supplementary funding, citing duplication of figures amid heavy criticism of President Museveni’s unchecked spending.
Astonished legislators led by Dokolo MP Felix Okot-Ogong wondered whether President Museveni was aware such “lavish” spending flies in the face of harsh economic realities the country is facing Finding their explanations unacceptable, the committee which is scrutinising government’s supplementaries, threw out ministers and State House officials who they directed to return next Tuesday with a clearer justification for the huge expenditure.
Mr Ogong, who heads the Greater North Parliamentary Forum, said: “The figure from State House is unacceptable. How can we find Shs92b for State House in a short time yet we failed to find Shs75b to increase teachers’ salaries? Let us reject the request for State House.”
Ms Christine Acayo (Nebbi Woman MP) and others pointed out that there were duplications in the money needed for water and electricity. Electricity (Shs180m) is repeated six times, the same with water for an equal amount.
Budget Committee Chairperson Tim Lwanga dismissed the request.
“There is no way we are going to approve this cut and paste. The bill for water cannot be the same as that of electricity. There must be something wrong,” Mr Lwanga said. State House Comptroller Lucy Nakyobe and acting Minister for Presidency Muruli Mukasa, who were appearing together with junior Finance Minister Fred Omach, could not find a sensible response.
Ministries were yesterday appearing before the committee to defend Shs215.6b (a figure representative of 2.09 per cent of total Gross Domestic Product needed to pay for what government calls unforeseen priorities.
State House request
Realising that State House was requesting an increase of 141.62 per cent of their original allocation, Achia Remigio (Pian) reminded Mr Omach that the economy was doing badly, adding that “Parliament cannot authorise the expenditure of 98 per cent on consumption.”
The committee observed that most of the items in the State House budget could have been provided for within the normal budgeting process.
Pleas by Mr Mukasa about the need for the President to meet his constitutional mandate fell flat. “I noted the anguish members expressed over State House budget but State House has a very big mandate to make sure the President performs his duties.”
“The money we receive is too little- we suffer anguish. It has become perennial that the budget proposals we give to finance over the years are not honoured. Most of these items are unforeseen and of emergency nature. The President has to travel and we have no choice,” he unsuccessfully argued.
ymugerwa@ug.nationmedia.com
STATE HOUSE SPENDING JUMPS TO SHS160BN!
By Yasiin Mugerwa
Posted Wednesday, February 22 2012 at 00:00
State House was yesterday unapologetic in the face of Parliament’s dismay at the Presidency’s repeated failure to spend within budget as its expenditure topped Shs160 billion as the country approaches the midway point of the Financial Year.
Latest figures from Ministry of Finance indicate that the State House budget has jumped from Shs66.6 billion approved in September last year to Shs158.5 billion.
Responding to members’ queries over State House’s uncontrolled spending, Secretary to the Treasury Chris Kassami admitted before the Finance Committee yesterday that supplementary requests were an “inconvenience” and a “disruption” of the Budget implementation process.
Mr Kassami told the committee that the government was in the process of amending the Budget Act, 2001 to provide for a 3 per cent allocation for a Contingency Fund to take care of unexpected supplementary requests.
While Parliament is yet to approve a recent Shs91.9 billion State House supplementary request in respect of monies already spent outside budget, Ministry of Finance has released Shs117.2 billion— representing 175 per cent of the total approved budget for State House for the current Financial Year.
Nodding patients untouched
With the Ministry of Health struggling to find Shs7 billion to help thousands of children stricken by the nodding disease which has claimed hundreds of lives in northern Uganda, State House last week tabled a request of Shs91.9 billion in more funding for the Presidency.
But presidential spokesman Tamale Mirundi, was scathing in his response to MPs who have accused the President of extravagance and insensitivity to the sick children in northern Uganda. He likened them to “peasants” whose arguments do not hold worth in a modern society.
Mr Mirundi said those complaining that the President is extravagant are like loud-mouthed parents, tired of paying school fees for their children.
“Nodding disease is not an issue for State House. That falls under Ministry of Health and disaster preparedness. Those MPs who are complaining about President’s expenditure should stop advancing peasantry arguments. State House has not grabbed any money for health and they should stop inciting the public,” he said.
“They should drop that peasantry mentality and think like legislators. They need to be helped to think in a modern way.”
Mr Mirundi said President Museveni’s expenses were a reflection of a working leader, offering accountability to his people.
“Those MPs should stop complaining about the President’s budget. They have a working President who is not a Kabaka. The President must go to every part of the country and travels abroad. He has not used the money to take his children to school. He is not using the money for the wedding of his children. If they don’t want a working President, let then amend the Constitution and have a monarchy.”
Shadow Finance Minister Geoffrey Ekanya once again accused the Presidency of “greed” and perpetuating financial indiscipline at a time when the economy is doing badly wit inflation in double digits.
“It appears impunity is steadily growing and those in power no longer care about those they lead. There is no way President Museveni would swim in billions when the rest of the county is yawning,” Mr Ekanya said. “This is too much, how can State House spend money on special meals and drinks, entertainment, donation, newspapers etc when other Ugandans are sinking in poverty?”
State House’s actions, along with the allegations of financial indiscipline, fly in the face of Section 12(1) of the Budget Act 2001 which allows Ministry of Finance to spend only 3 per cent of total the budget as supplementary expenditure for which it can seek retrospective authority from Parliament. STA
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
MUSEVENI WILL BE REMEMBERED FOR HIS STATEHOUSE'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE IMPOVERISHMENT OF UGANDANS
STATEHOUSE SPENDING JUMPS TO SHS 160BN!
By Yasiin Mugerwa
Posted Wednesday, February 22 2012 at 00:00
State House was yesterday unapologetic in the face of Parliament’s dismay at the Presidency’s repeated failure to spend within budget as its expenditure topped Shs160 billion as the country approaches the midway point of the Financial Year.
Latest figures from Ministry of Finance indicate that the State House budget has jumped from Shs66.6 billion approved in September last year to Shs158.5 billion.
Responding to members’ queries over State House’s uncontrolled spending, Secretary to the Treasury Chris Kassami admitted before the Finance Committee yesterday that supplementary requests were an “inconvenience” and a “disruption” of the Budget implementation process.
Mr Kassami told the committee that the government was in the process of amending the Budget Act, 2001 to provide for a 3 per cent allocation for a Contingency Fund to take care of unexpected supplementary requests.
While Parliament is yet to approve a recent Shs91.9 billion State House supplementary request in respect of monies already spent outside budget, Ministry of Finance has released Shs117.2 billion— representing 175 per cent of the total approved budget for State House for the current Financial Year.
Nodding patients untouched
With the Ministry of Health struggling to find Shs7 billion to help thousands of children stricken by the nodding disease which has claimed hundreds of lives in northern Uganda, State House last week tabled a request of Shs91.9 billion in more funding for the Presidency.
But presidential spokesman Tamale Mirundi, was scathing in his response to MPs who have accused the President of extravagance and insensitivity to the sick children in northern Uganda. He likened them to “peasants” whose arguments do not hold worth in a modern society.
Mr Mirundi said those complaining that the President is extravagant are like loud-mouthed parents, tired of paying school fees for their children.
“Nodding disease is not an issue for State House. That falls under Ministry of Health and disaster preparedness. Those MPs who are complaining about President’s expenditure should stop advancing peasantry arguments. State House has not grabbed any money for health and they should stop inciting the public,” he said yesterday.
“They should drop that peasantry mentality and think like legislators. They need to be helped to think in a modern way.”
Mr Mirundi said President Museveni’s expenses were a reflection of a working leader, offering accountability to his people.
“Those MPs should stop complaining about the President’s budget. They have a working President who is not a Kabaka. The President must go to every part of the country and travels abroad. He has not used the money to take his children to school. He is not using the money for the wedding of his children. If they don’t want a working President, let then amend the Constitution and have a monarchy.”
Shadow Finance Minister Geoffrey Ekanya once again accused the Presidency of “greed” and perpetuating financial indiscipline at a time when the economy is doing badly wit inflation in double digits.
“It appears impunity is steadily growing and those in power no longer care about those they lead. There is no way President Museveni would swim in billions when the rest of the county is yawning,” Mr Ekanya said. “This is too much, how can State House spend money on special meals and drinks, entertainment, donation, newspapers etc when other Ugandans are sinking in poverty?”
State House’s actions, along with the allegations of financial indiscipline, fly in the face of Section 12(1) of the Budget Act 2001 which allows Ministry of Finance to spend only 3 per cent of total the budget as supplementary expenditure for which it can seek retrospective authority from Parliament.
By Yasiin Mugerwa
Posted Wednesday, February 22 2012 at 00:00
State House was yesterday unapologetic in the face of Parliament’s dismay at the Presidency’s repeated failure to spend within budget as its expenditure topped Shs160 billion as the country approaches the midway point of the Financial Year.
Latest figures from Ministry of Finance indicate that the State House budget has jumped from Shs66.6 billion approved in September last year to Shs158.5 billion.
Responding to members’ queries over State House’s uncontrolled spending, Secretary to the Treasury Chris Kassami admitted before the Finance Committee yesterday that supplementary requests were an “inconvenience” and a “disruption” of the Budget implementation process.
Mr Kassami told the committee that the government was in the process of amending the Budget Act, 2001 to provide for a 3 per cent allocation for a Contingency Fund to take care of unexpected supplementary requests.
While Parliament is yet to approve a recent Shs91.9 billion State House supplementary request in respect of monies already spent outside budget, Ministry of Finance has released Shs117.2 billion— representing 175 per cent of the total approved budget for State House for the current Financial Year.
Nodding patients untouched
With the Ministry of Health struggling to find Shs7 billion to help thousands of children stricken by the nodding disease which has claimed hundreds of lives in northern Uganda, State House last week tabled a request of Shs91.9 billion in more funding for the Presidency.
But presidential spokesman Tamale Mirundi, was scathing in his response to MPs who have accused the President of extravagance and insensitivity to the sick children in northern Uganda. He likened them to “peasants” whose arguments do not hold worth in a modern society.
Mr Mirundi said those complaining that the President is extravagant are like loud-mouthed parents, tired of paying school fees for their children.
“Nodding disease is not an issue for State House. That falls under Ministry of Health and disaster preparedness. Those MPs who are complaining about President’s expenditure should stop advancing peasantry arguments. State House has not grabbed any money for health and they should stop inciting the public,” he said yesterday.
“They should drop that peasantry mentality and think like legislators. They need to be helped to think in a modern way.”
Mr Mirundi said President Museveni’s expenses were a reflection of a working leader, offering accountability to his people.
“Those MPs should stop complaining about the President’s budget. They have a working President who is not a Kabaka. The President must go to every part of the country and travels abroad. He has not used the money to take his children to school. He is not using the money for the wedding of his children. If they don’t want a working President, let then amend the Constitution and have a monarchy.”
Shadow Finance Minister Geoffrey Ekanya once again accused the Presidency of “greed” and perpetuating financial indiscipline at a time when the economy is doing badly wit inflation in double digits.
“It appears impunity is steadily growing and those in power no longer care about those they lead. There is no way President Museveni would swim in billions when the rest of the county is yawning,” Mr Ekanya said. “This is too much, how can State House spend money on special meals and drinks, entertainment, donation, newspapers etc when other Ugandans are sinking in poverty?”
State House’s actions, along with the allegations of financial indiscipline, fly in the face of Section 12(1) of the Budget Act 2001 which allows Ministry of Finance to spend only 3 per cent of total the budget as supplementary expenditure for which it can seek retrospective authority from Parliament.
BESIGYE WRONGLY THINKS THAT IT IS ONLY NRM MEMBERS WHO ARE CORRUPT
Eying power is corrupting Besigye to the extent of making false utterances. While speaking to a crowd that gathered at Busoga square during the last campaign rally of the FDC candidate Paul Mwiru who contested in Jinja Municipality East constituency at Jinja he is quoted to have said, "Enough is enough; our country has been plundered by people of mediocre talents extracting every public resource for selfish interests, but time is now patriotic people joined us to fight such impunity" he said. Dr Besigye said that the only sure way of eliminating corruption out of the country is by voting out all NRM members out of authority because they coerced to plunder the nation." The utterances by Besigye are simply of a person who is ignorant about corruption in Uganda. To say that the only sure way of eliminating corruption is by voting NRM Members out of authority is simplistic and impossible, yet it cannot deliver. To be sure, even if Besigye got power a month now, the country is so messed up that even in 5 years, it is difficult to predict that a leader will have made substantial improvement in the way things are. In such circumstances, we the people of Uganda have to accept that we have a problem. The biggest problem being due to top leadership. We then need to think of civilised ways to handle the matter. So far, we have a problem. We thought that the 9th Parliament can be objective enough on what ever issue that comes their way, unfortunately, over the shs 103m for the cars, many say these cars have to be got. While an MP has a package of about shs 15m, it is a shame that our teachers have less than shs 200,00 take home package. Dr Besigye himself is corrupt. He stood for President from 2001, unfortunately, he has not been able to make it. Now, he is resolving to use of force. Many of us are aware of the cost force can do to the badly impoverished people of Uganda and a country badly in debt with insignificant import revenue yet with a lot of demand for foreign produced goods. If Besigye is not corrupt, why does he not give way to some other person to take on. It looks like whether he leaves the party Presidency, he will still push to see himself in office of President, to me that is corrupt.
The people of Uganda ought to understand what corruption has done to the country, then come up with institutional approach to the problem and finally the people will win in a democratic way. We have seen Parliament united to see Ministers whose acts are not befitting the offices they hold. These have been told to leave and so far so good. Can we see the institution of the Parliament together with civil society work together to see sanity in the country as opposed to force which will lead to similar circle of an eating click and corruption because they 'fought and sacrificed for our rights.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
BESIGYE PROMISES CHANGE BEFORE 2012
Written by Sunrise Reporters Friday, 10 February 2012 10:52
Besigye addressing supporters of FDC candidate in Jinja
Written by Sunrise Reporters Friday, 10 February 2012 10:52
Besigye addressing supporters of FDC candidate in Jinja
The President for Forum for democratic change FDC retired Col Dr Kizza Besigye says efforts by the ruling government to frustrate the efforts by opposition activists to cause change peacefully will not dampen their spirits.
Dr Besigye says that even after quitting active party politics, he will not relent on pushing change in Uganda. Besigye said he was quitting the position of party president.
"As long as you increase the number of strong opposition activists who cannot be intimidated by the threats and oppression of the sitting NRM government, expect change this year even before 2016 polls" Besigye said.
The FDC president was speaking to a mammoth crowd that gathered at Busoga square during the last campaign rally of the FDC candidate Paul Mwiru who contested in Jinja municipality East constituency.
"Enough is enough; our country has been plundered by people of mediocre talents extracting every public resource for selfish interests, but time is now patriotic people joined us to fight such impunity" he said.
Dr Besigye said that the only sure way of eliminating corruption out of the country is by voting out all NRM members out of authority because they coerced to plunder the nation.
FDC 's Mwiru challenged the election of the NRM's Nathan Igeme Nabeta in courts of law over lack of minimum academic qualifications, and voter bribery prompting the February 9, 2012 bye elections.
Flanked by FDC's big fish including party vice president Salamu Musumba, party national chairman Sam Kalega Njuba, and leader of opposition in parliament Nathan Nandala Mafabi, Besigye sent revelers into a pool of laughter when he asked whether the people of Jinja again want guns to cause change.
Besigye perhaps got a different answer when the people responded in the affirmative and said; "Yes give, us guns."
The same day, NRM chairman, President Museveni also campaigned in Walukuba masese soliciting support for NRM's Igeme Nabeta where he asked voters to distinguish saboteurs from genuine leaders who will deliver services for development.
Museveni hailed Nabeta describing him as a development oriented person who brought the first innovation of a communication park in Uganda referring to Lake Victoria telecommunication centre LAVIT under construction at Kirinya in Jinja.
The president also laid a foundation stone to Jinja central market under construction by Vambeco contractors saying its completion will add value to the business atmosphere in Jinja and the surrounding areas.
By Andrew Bazibu in Jinja
The people of Uganda ought to understand what corruption has done to the country, then come up with institutional approach to the problem and finally the people will win in a democratic way. We have seen Parliament united to see Ministers whose acts are not befitting the offices they hold. These have been told to leave and so far so good. Can we see the institution of the Parliament together with civil society work together to see sanity in the country as opposed to force which will lead to similar circle of an eating click and corruption because they 'fought and sacrificed for our rights.
William Kituuka Kiwanuka
BESIGYE PROMISES CHANGE BEFORE 2012
Written by Sunrise Reporters Friday, 10 February 2012 10:52
Besigye addressing supporters of FDC candidate in Jinja
Written by Sunrise Reporters Friday, 10 February 2012 10:52
Besigye addressing supporters of FDC candidate in Jinja
The President for Forum for democratic change FDC retired Col Dr Kizza Besigye says efforts by the ruling government to frustrate the efforts by opposition activists to cause change peacefully will not dampen their spirits.
Dr Besigye says that even after quitting active party politics, he will not relent on pushing change in Uganda. Besigye said he was quitting the position of party president.
"As long as you increase the number of strong opposition activists who cannot be intimidated by the threats and oppression of the sitting NRM government, expect change this year even before 2016 polls" Besigye said.
The FDC president was speaking to a mammoth crowd that gathered at Busoga square during the last campaign rally of the FDC candidate Paul Mwiru who contested in Jinja municipality East constituency.
"Enough is enough; our country has been plundered by people of mediocre talents extracting every public resource for selfish interests, but time is now patriotic people joined us to fight such impunity" he said.
Dr Besigye said that the only sure way of eliminating corruption out of the country is by voting out all NRM members out of authority because they coerced to plunder the nation.
FDC 's Mwiru challenged the election of the NRM's Nathan Igeme Nabeta in courts of law over lack of minimum academic qualifications, and voter bribery prompting the February 9, 2012 bye elections.
Flanked by FDC's big fish including party vice president Salamu Musumba, party national chairman Sam Kalega Njuba, and leader of opposition in parliament Nathan Nandala Mafabi, Besigye sent revelers into a pool of laughter when he asked whether the people of Jinja again want guns to cause change.
Besigye perhaps got a different answer when the people responded in the affirmative and said; "Yes give, us guns."
The same day, NRM chairman, President Museveni also campaigned in Walukuba masese soliciting support for NRM's Igeme Nabeta where he asked voters to distinguish saboteurs from genuine leaders who will deliver services for development.
Museveni hailed Nabeta describing him as a development oriented person who brought the first innovation of a communication park in Uganda referring to Lake Victoria telecommunication centre LAVIT under construction at Kirinya in Jinja.
The president also laid a foundation stone to Jinja central market under construction by Vambeco contractors saying its completion will add value to the business atmosphere in Jinja and the surrounding areas.
By Andrew Bazibu in Jinja
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