Nsibambi contented with retirement benefits

By Henry Sekanjako

Former Prime Minister Prof Apollo Nsibambi says he is not complaining about the payment of his retirement benefits by government as he is cleared on a monthly basis.

Nsibambi, who was appearing before the parliament’s committee on public service and local government Tuesday, told MPs that it is only entitlements like a vehicle and  house which have not been provided to him yet.

“I want to pay tribute to ministry of finance’s Keith Muhakanzi and the Permanent secretary ministry public service Aidah Muwanga for making sure that I get my benefits. I have been getting most of my benefits; what I have not received is the vehicle and a house,” confirmed Nsibambi.

According to the emoluments and benefits of the president, Vice President and Prime Minister Act 2010, the Prime Minister shall be paid a salary and allowances and shall be accorded other benefits specified in relation to the office of the Prime Minister.

The committee chaired by Zombo district woman MP Grace Freedom Kwiyucwiny recently summoned Nsibambi following revelations by former Vice President Gilbert Bukenya that the former Prime Minister was given all his retirement benefits.

However Nsibambi dismissed the allegations saying he was receiving sh3.3m per month to cater for his monthly pay which is sh1.5m, medical insurance, utility bills domestic workers, fuel and security.

“I don’t have any problem with the former Vice President, I worked with him but what annoyed me was that I was given everything and that he was being denied, he should have rung me,” noted Nsibambi.

He explained that he is currently using a vehicle he borrowed from the office of the prime minister adding that he was still waiting for the official vehicle and house from the government.

Nsibambi, who also told the committee that he was appointed a special presidential adviser on general matters, said he was enjoying his retirement and would never allow any political reappointment.

However the MPs questioned Nsibambi over his move to borrow a vehicle from the office of the Prime minister other than demanding a new one as an entitlement.

“Under what terms did you borrow this vehicle, what was the package, does it come with fuel,” asked Raphael Magyezi (Igara West).

Rukungiri municipality MP Roland Mugume added; “why did you borrow this car, don’t you think there are officials in the office of the prime minister who would want to use this car.”

Nsibambi however defended his action saying, he discussed the matter with Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi who allowed him to use the car.