A section of Members of Parliament is furious about Parliament’s decision to cut their salaries to contribute to the Jacob Oulanyah Education Trust Fund.
Reports from parliament indicate that MPs’ salaries were cut by Shs1 million to support the late speaker’s education trust fund.
However, some legislators are furious, saying the money was cut without their consent.
Bugabula MP Maurice Kibalya says there should not be collective responsibility in cutting money.
“They should not take money like that because I did not consent. If I have to contribute money, I must sign somewhere, “he said.
Ronald Balimwezo, the Nakawa East MP, also opposed the cuts, saying he could utilize the money they cut in his own constituency as he receives numerous calls from his constituents requesting financial aid.
On the other hand, Christopher Komakech, the Aruu County legislator, defends parliament’s cutting of MPs’ salaries, saying they are doing it out of goodwill for their departed member.
Chris Obore, the Director of Communication at Parliament, says the decision to cut the MPs’ salaries by Shs1 million was made following a resolution of parliament. He urges MPs not to blow the issue out of proportion.
Oulanyah died in a hospital in Seattle, the USA on March 20th, 2022 after serving less than 10 months in office. He became the first serving speaker to die while in office in Uganda’s history.
Through his efforts, Oulanyah secured bursaries for over 100 students at Seroma Christian High School in Mukono, while several other students, including his own biological children, are pursuing professional courses overseas.
In April, MPs agreed to contribute Shs554 million to support his trust fund.