Museveni Warns Ministers: Sack Threat Amidst Corruption Crackdown as 12th Parliament Opens

President Yoweri Museveni has issued a stern warning to his cabinet, signaling an end to leniency for underperforming ministers. Speaking at the opening of the 12th Parliament, Museveni declared he would sack any minister failing to effectively implement wealth creation programs, emphasizing his impatience with leaders who do not prioritize lifting Ugandans out of poverty.

During his address at Kololo Independence Grounds, Museveni expressed deep frustration that despite significant government investment, many citizens remain economically stagnant. He blamed this failure on the lack of empathy and diligence among leaders. “I demand this. And anybody who is a minister, if I come to your area and I find that you have not done it, I will sack you,” he stated, pivoting from a previously perceived gentler approach to a more forceful executive style.

The Parish Development Model (PDM) remains a central pillar of his economic strategy, with plans to double annual funding to Shs 200 million per parish. “Now capital is there, Shs 800 million in each parish already. Use it,” Museveni urged, indicating his intent to hold leaders accountable for the utilization of these funds.

This firm stance on governance and economic delivery occurs against the backdrop of a significant anti-corruption push, targeting high-profile figures within the legislature. The opening of the 12th Parliament follows intensive investigations into former Speaker Anita Among, who is under probe for alleged illicit wealth accumulation and abuse of office. Recent raids on her properties and office by state operatives underscore the seriousness of the crackdown.

The new leadership of Parliament, Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, face the challenge of restoring public trust following the fallout from corruption allegations. Museveni explicitly cautioned them against the diversion of public resources. However, political analysts remain watchful, citing past instances, such as the Karamoja iron sheets scandal, where promised actions against implicated ministers did not fully materialize.

As a public health reminder, Museveni also curbed jubilant celebrations, urging MPs to avoid physical contact due to a recent increase in Ebola cases in the region. “Stop this shaking of hands and all this,” he implored, referencing the ongoing outbreak in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo.

https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/-enough-is-enough-museveni-threatens-to-sack-ministers-as-12th-parliament-opens-amid-corruption-crackdown-5473242