national 9 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Museveni Orders Shs231 Billion Veterans' Fund Probe Amidst Corruption Allegations
President Yoweri Museveni has launched a high-level investigation into the alleged mismanagement of Shs231 billion allocated for "Akasiimo," a token of appreciation for military veterans. The probe follows reports of corruption, ghost beneficiaries, and bureaucratic mismanagement, despite the funds being disbursed. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/museveni-orders-probe-into-shs231b-veterans-token-of-appreciation-5490172
President Yoweri Museveni has ordered a thorough investigation into the utilization of Shs231 billion designated as “Akasiimo” or ex-gratia gratuity for military veterans.
During this year’s Heroes’ Day celebrations at State Lodge Nakasero, President Museveni expressed deep concern that despite the treasury releasing the substantial funds over several financial cycles, many genuine and aging veterans continue to live in hardship without receiving their rightful dues.
He stated that the “Akasiimo” is a solemn commitment to those who fought for Uganda’s present-day peace and stability. The President lamented that the funds, intended to ensure veterans live with dignity, have allegedly been diverted to enrich a few individuals.
The investigation, spearheaded by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and intelligence agencies, will involve auditing payrolls and tracing the disbursement of funds down to the regional level. This move comes amid persistent reports of corruption, ghost beneficiaries, and significant delays within the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
President Museveni also highlighted the unsustainable financial burden of veteran healthcare due to structural inefficiencies and potential financial leakages. He suggested redirecting veteran medical care to Entebbe Hospital to curb what he described as “squandering money.”
The President used the Heroes’ Day platform to reflect on the achievements of the liberation struggle, acknowledging Uganda’s macroeconomic growth while emphasizing the need to translate this success into tangible micro-prosperity for ordinary citizens through programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM).