Politics 17 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
COSASE Summons Former UHRC Accountant Over Shs70m Furniture Purchase
Parliament's Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) has summoned a former accounting officer of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) to account for over Shs70 million allegedly spent on furniture without proper approval. The expenditure was flagged by the Auditor General as an unplanned procurement. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/cosase-summons-former-uhrc-accounting-officer-over-shs70m-expenditure-on-furniture-5561736
The Parliamentary Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE) is seeking answers regarding a questionable expenditure of over Shs70 million by the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC). A former accounting officer has been summoned to explain the use of these funds, which were reportedly diverted for furniture purchases without adequate authorization.
The Auditor General’s report highlighted this expenditure, prompting COSASE to investigate the financial management of the UHRC. During a recent committee meeting, UHRC officials stated the money was for furniture in their new offices but could not provide specific details on the items purchased or the procurement process.
COSASE Chairperson, Hon. Muwada Nkunyingi, expressed concern that the Shs70.4 million was spent on items not included in the commission’s budget and without adhering to legal procurement procedures. The committee is particularly troubled because current UHRC officials claim the expenditure was authorized by the previous accounting officer, whose whereabouts and accountability remain unclear.
Efforts to secure the former accounting officer’s appearance have been ongoing. The committee has now issued a directive for this individual to appear on August 24, 2026, to provide a detailed explanation for the funds’ diversion and clarify the circumstances surrounding the furniture procurement. The committee aims to ascertain who authorized the spending, why funds were reallocated, and whether financial regulations were followed.
This scrutiny of the UHRC’s finances occurs amidst broader concerns about the institution’s governance and operational effectiveness, including reported internal disputes and disruptions to its tribunal operations. COSASE is emphasizing the importance of value for taxpayer money and accountability for all public funds utilized by the commission.