Uganda Parliament Approves Shs1.1 Trillion Supplementary Budget for Key Events
📋 Key Takeaway: The Ugandan Parliament has approved a Shs1.1 trillion supplementary budget for 2025/2026, funding the swearing-in of President Museveni, AFCON 2027 preparations, and local council elections.
Parliament Approves Supplementary Expenditure
The Parliament of Uganda has approved a supplementary expenditure schedule amounting to Shs1.1 trillion for the fiscal year 2025/2026. This budget allocation addresses several key events, including the swearing-in ceremony of President Yoweri Museveni, preparations for the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027, and the elections of local councils. The approval was granted during a parliamentary session on May 5, 2026, following a motion presented by Hon. Fox Odoi-Oywelowo, a Member of Parliament from West Budama North East.
The Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, presented the request for supplementary funding, emphasizing the necessity of these expenditures. The House suspended Rule 160, which typically requires scrutiny by the Budget Committee and sectoral committees, to expedite the approval process. Odoi-Oywelowo highlighted the importance of providing resources for local council elections, asserting that enabling democratic processes at all administrative levels is imperative.
Allocation Breakdown and Justifications
The supplementary budget allocates Shs29 billion to the Ministry of Sports for AFCON preparatory activities, Shs56 billion to the Ministry of Local Government for local council elections, and Shs3 billion to the Office of the President for the swearing-in ceremony of the President-elect, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Additionally, Shs46 billion is designated for various expenditures to address wage shortfalls across government sectors.
Minister Musasizi defended the necessity of the supplementary budget, arguing that while some expenditures, such as the President’s swearing-in, were anticipated, the costs associated with the event exceeded initial budgetary provisions. He stated, ‘At the time of budgeting, what we provided and what is required is different and this is allowable.’ The funds allocated for AFCON preparations are deemed urgent, covering essential works including road improvements and safety interventions in various municipalities.
Opposition Concerns and Calls for Accountability
Despite the approval, some Members of Parliament raised concerns regarding the classification of these expenditures as emergencies. Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju, the Shadow Minister for Finance, along with MP Hon. Medard Ssegonna, contended that many of the expenditures were foreseeable and should not have necessitated a supplementary budget so close to the budget speech. Ssegonna questioned the urgency of the request, emphasizing the need for accountability in the allocation of funds.
Moreover, Erute County South MP, Hon. Jonathan Odur, challenged the minister to provide a detailed list of villages where local council elections would take place to ensure transparency in the electoral process. These discussions reflect ongoing tensions within the Parliament regarding fiscal management and the prioritization of government expenditures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Shs1.1 trillion supplementary budget?
The budget funds the swearing-in of President Museveni, AFCON 2027 preparations, and local council elections.
How much funding is allocated for AFCON preparations?
Shs29 billion is allocated to the Ministry of Sports for AFCON preparatory activities.
Why did Parliament suspend Rule 160?
Rule 160 was suspended to expedite the approval process for the supplementary budget.
What concerns were raised by opposition MPs?
Opposition MPs argued that many expenditures were foreseeable and questioned the need for a supplementary budget.
What accountability measures were suggested by MPs?
MPs called for a detailed list of villages for local council elections to ensure transparency.
