Kampala, (UG):- The MPs behind the motion to censure the parliament commissioners accused of sharing among themselves the controversial Shs 1.7 billion service award have come out to criticise Bukomansimbi Woman MP, Hon Veronica Nanyondo for withdrawing her signature on claims that she was misled into signing the motion.
Hon Nanyondo, who subscribes to the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) on Tuesday wrote to Speaker Anita Among claiming she had mistakenly signed the motion, thinking it was an attendance list for a meeting called by Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi.
Following her withdrawal of the signature, Lwemiyaga County MP Theodore Ssekikubo, the lead petition dismissed the female MP’s explanation as “unfortunate and characteristic of the theatrics” often associated with censure motions in Parliament.
“We haven’t even reached the point of submitting our signatures to the Speaker. Why the rush? Why not wait until all signatures are collected before seeking withdrawal? The Speaker should refrain from interfering in these matters; it tarnishes the image of MPs. Let the Speaker leave MPs alone,” Ssekikubo said.
Ssekikubo expressed little surprise at Nanyondo’s actions, citing the reluctance of several MPs known for their anti-corruption stance to support the motion.
“Many MPs are suddenly ‘blind’ and ‘lame,’ offering various excuses. However, we have gathered sufficient signatures, despite the drama. Those MPs claiming ignorance will face consequences,” he added.
Leader of the Opposition in Parliament Ssenyonyi also rubbished Ms Nanyondo’s claims saying; “Why would she sign from the boardroom yet other members have signed from the main censure table? You need to find out if the member is okay.”
Explaining the farce, Ssenyonyi said they had a Shadow Cabinet meeting on Tuesday which Ms Nanyondo could not have attended because she is not a member of the Shadow Cabinet.
” I was surprised to see this letter. Why would our colleague claim she “signed attendance” for a meeting she doesn’t belong to and which she didn’t even attend?” Ssenyonyi said.
“Also, all who have signed the censure petition know that the title on the lists indicates clearly that it’s a motion to censure the commissioners. So, did the Honourable MP simply sign what she didn’t read?”
Legislator John Teira of Bugabula took to his X handle (formerly Twitter) to mock Ms Nanyondo, questioning how a senior legislator could be hoodwinked.
“A member of parliament who’s hoodwinked to sign a document she’s not intended to sign should either plead idiocy or humbly admit to psychiatric treatment,” Teira argued.
Lead petitioner Ssekikubo announced that his team would publicly display the list of MPs who have signed the censure motion. The process is set to conclude on Friday afternoon, following the State of the Nation Address.
“At 2 pm on Friday, we will hold a press conference to update the public on the process. We aim to demonstrate transparency by revealing the signatories. We urge MPs not to chuck their responsibilities,” Ssekikubo stated.
Addressing claims regarding the approval of the Shs1.7 billion service award and Shs23 million monthly salary for four backbench commissioners, Ssekikubo refuted allegations of parliamentary approval and challenged those making such claims to provide evidence.
Ssekikubo responded to Herbert Kinobere, vice spokesperson of the NRM Caucus, who directed MPs not to sign the censure motion until they have received guidance from President Museveni.
“We are proceeding as planned. The Government Chief Whip has not identified any procedural errors. We remain committed to combating corruption and upholding parliamentary rules,” he asserted.
Regarding the NRM’s response to corruption allegations, Kinobere clarified that investigations were ongoing.
“We do not rush to conclusions; thorough investigation is necessary. We are addressing the issue internally, including discussions with MPs like Theodore Ssekikubo. They will be held accountable within the party,” Kinobere said.
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