Cleaners, Guards Implicated in Alleged Siphoning of Funds Linked to Former Speaker Among

An unfolding investigation into alleged corruption and illicit enrichment within Uganda’s Parliament has pointed towards a sophisticated method of siphoning and laundering funds, reportedly involving ordinary staff members. Sources close to the probe suggest that individuals such as cleaners, security personnel, and drivers were allegedly utilized to move significant sums of money.

Investigators, after analyzing financial transactions across various parliamentary departments including transportation, finance, protocol, and communication, are said to have uncovered a pattern where staff accounts were allegedly used to facilitate these financial movements. This practice is believed to have been a tactic to evade scrutiny from the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA).

The probe has reportedly expanded to include parliamentary staff and bank officials who may have aided in shielding these alleged activities. Investigators are mapping out financial networks and procurement deals involving politically connected individuals across ministries.

According to a source, some parliamentary staff were allegedly offered substantial amounts, purportedly between Shs 50 million to Shs 100 million, for allowing their accounts to be used for transactions up to Shs 500 million. They were instructed to withdraw most of the funds and return them, keeping a small portion as a “reward” for their complicity, which some used to acquire assets.

This investigation follows the seizure of several luxury vehicles and the freezing of bank accounts linked to former Speaker Anita Among. The inquiry has also broadened to other government agencies, with several officials summoned for questioning. Meanwhile, parliamentary commissioners from the 11th Parliament are reportedly being asked to provide statements regarding a Shs 1.7 billion “service award” allegedly shared among themselves and Among in 2022.

Since the investigation began, Anita Among has not made any public appearances, fueling speculation about her current status. Her residence in Nakasero is reportedly under guard by the Special Forces Command.

https://observer.ug/news/among-cash-trail-traced-back-to-cleaners-security-guards