
“The Ministry of Public Service is seeking for Shs7.2Bn to procure brand new luxurious cars for former leaders like; Edward Ssekandi and Prime Ministers Ruhakana Rugunda, Amama Mbabazi as part of their emoluments benefits” (Parliament Watch, 10.01.2024).
We are now in 2024 and there is steadily news that former dignitaries and high ranking official are awarded cars, emoluments, pensions and other perks. That former Vice President Ssekandi gets another vehicle isn’t shocking, as this man is entitled to several of them, because of what the August House has given to the predecessors. It must be nice to be insider and the inner circle within the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
They are getting paid drivers, guards, vehicles, money for refurbishing furniture or whatnot. That’s what they are giving former Prime Ministers, Vice Presidents or Speakers. If you had several of these Offices. You will be entitled to all of it and get double or triple of it. Meaning the likes of Ssekandi are eating large even as his not serving the Republic anymore.
The vehicles to given to them is just a sign of importance. This is what they value and prioritize. The cars and other perks are more vital than government services. It is being done so often and with such flair. That you know this is essential for the government. They don’t have the same urgency with building schools, hospitals or roads for that matter. No, they rather spend on the inner-circle than giving the citizens what they need.
They rather spend it on themselves and that’s how they keep the party loyal. The former VP and PM’s are getting a kickback by this initially. It is just a personal touch to their time served in this government. However, it isn’t making the government better or the services either.
The NRM shows how it lacks fiscal discipline, as Ssekandi can get perks from every office he has served in. They can give him cars and other pay-offs without any need to work. That’s being paid for his previous time in office. Certainly, the other mentioned ones could possible get double or triple pay-offs as well. Since they weren’t only former PM’s but had other offices before that. Therefore, we know the game and how this one plays out.
Yes, this has all been voted through the Parliament and there is codes that makes this legit. Nevertheless, it doesn’t make it righteous when schools are falling to pieces, hospitals cannot afford to buy equipment or medicine, but a former PM is obligated to a free vehicle. That’s why we have to question this and it shows the priorities of the state.
They rather spend on themselves than caring for the citizens. Peace.










