MPs unite over Kasubi funds, target sh5b

By Cyprian Musoke and Moses Walubiri

MPs hailing from Buganda have finally agreed to put aside their earlier differences over contributions to the renovation Kasubi tombs, and join hands with the Katikkiro (Kingdom Prime minister) for the cause.

They have also assembled a committee to rally their colleagues from other regions to contribute, and also organise the impending visit of the Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga to Parliament soon.

Buganda caucus Chairman Godfrey Kiwanda (Mityana north) said that their target is to collect not less than sh5b.

He added that it will be the first time in history that the Buganda Premier officially visits Parliament, hosted by the Speaker Rebecca Kadaga to a luncheon, address MPs in the conference hall before attending the Plenary in the distinguished strangers’ gallery.

There have been allegations against some members of the caucus including treasurer Deogratius Kiyingi (Bukomansimbi DP), that MPs are tired of incessant  fundraisings by Mengo, with others demanding for accountability of earlier monies.

But Kiyingi denied ever making the utterances attributed to him in the media, calling them unfounded rumours by detractors who want to poison his relationship with the Kingdom.

“The 9th Parliament has been the biggest contributor to Buganda’s causes from all earlier Parliaments. Those spreading that rumour that we are tired of contributing want to dissuade us,” he told journalists.

Asked whether some members had demanded for accountability of earlier collections, Betty Nambooze (Mukono DP) said; “We are donating to our Kingdom. It is unfair to demand for accountability even before we have contributed.”

Kiwanda said they were supposed to meet the Katikkiro before recess, but since they want to rally all others MPs, they re-scheduled to when Parliament resumes, at a date the Speaker will schedule.

Members of the committee to mobilise funds will include Trade minister Amelia Kyambadde for cabinet, Mathias Mpuuga (Shadow cabinent), Margaret Zziwa (EALA), Elijah Okupa (Parliamentary Commission), Agnes Nandutu (Parliamentary Press).

Others are Nalubega Mariam (Independents), Elly Tumwine (UPDF), Ken Lukyamuzi (CP), Hussein Kyanjo (JEEMA), Ssemuju Nganda (FDC), Joseph Ssewungu (DP), Betty Amongi and James Akena (UPC). NRM Mps will be mobilised by Rosemary Sseninde, Anifa Kawoooya, Ruth Nankabirwa, James kakooza, Mathias Kasamba, Robert Ndugwa and John Ssimbwa.   

“Parliament is very ready to contribute and host the Katikkiro, and we are grateful to be joined by MPs from all over the country,” Kiwanda said.