KAMPALA|The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has urged the government to take tougher action on corruption and respect the independence of the judiciary.
Addressing journalists at their weekly press briefing at the party headquarters in Kampala, the party spokesperson Sharon Oyat Arach disclosed that corruption is a monster that must be fought tooth and nail by the government. “We need to show goodwill and commitment to fighting corruption, not just paying lip service.” She said
Arach also noted that corruption was undermining service delivery and poverty alleviation projects, citing examples such as the Youth Livelihood program, Emyooga and Parish Development Model (PDM).
“We need to prioritize corruption cases and dispose of them quickly,” Arach said. “We also need to respect taxpayers’ money and avoid corruption tendencies that compromise the future of Uganda.”
Arach however, noted with concern over the recent re-arrest of MP Hon. Akamba outside the court premises, which she described as a regrettable experience that undermined the independence of the judiciary. “Not only excessive force was used, but it totally undermined the independence of the judiciary! As we speak, the public does not know who did the arrest and his whereabouts.” She stated
Last week on Friday, plain-clothed security personnel armed with pistols whisked away Busiki County MP, Hon. Kamba, outside the Anti-Corruption Court moments after he was granted bail.
“We call for lawful means of handling offenders and respect for the judiciary,” Arach said. “Let us work together to fight corruption and ensure a brighter future for Uganda.” Said Arach
Hon. Kamba is the third person among the group of 3 MPs who were arrested on charges related to corruption scandals. His counterparts, Lwengo District Woman MP of Parliament Cissy Namujju Dionizia and Yusuf Mutembuli, the Bunyole East Member of Parliament,were denied bail and further remanded to Luzira prison.
