The Leader of the Opposition (LoP), Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi has tasked the Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Development to present before Parliament, accountability of the Shs263.33 billion invested in Roko Construction Company.

In July 2022, government acquired preferential shares in Roko Construction Company as part of an equity investment to keep the company afloat.

Ssenyonyi said that whereas government invested in the company to ensure completion of construction of projects such as Parliamentary Chambers and Uganda Cancer Institute, among others, little progress has been made. 
“Government’s stake was to ensure that these projects continue without delay as the collapse of Roko would lead to delay. However, to date, some of the infrastructure projects that were fronted as the reason for the approval of this investment have not been completed,” Ssenyonyi said.

The LoP made these demands in his report to the House on Tuesday, 22 October 2022. 
“Government ought to update Parliament on the latest financial standings of this company given that government approached Parliament with the bail out request. I think it is prudent that the House is given accountability,” said Ssenyonyi.

He also wants the Attorney General, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka to table in Parliament, the shares agreement between government and Roko.   
“Government shares are not clear; there is need to clarify this. It is not known as to whether amendments were made to include government investments and how much government owns in equity and what type of shares,” he said.

The LoP further called for investigation into governance challenges in the company saying that employees there have severally complained of non-payment. 
“Government said the aim of the bail out was aimed at saving jobs. Is government aware of concerns by employees?” Ssenyonyi asked.

Ssenyonyi’s concerns are premised on a failed oversight visit to the company’s premises where he led a delegation of Opposition lawmakers on Monday, 14 October 2024 but were denied access.  
“The managing director said that the board had rejected the planned engagement with the Members of Parliament and the company’s management. Please, encourage Roko, if they have nothing to hide, they should be open,” said Ssenyonyi.

Speaker Anita Among urged the Minister of Finance and the Attorney General to make a response to the LoP’s report. 
“We have our money that is with Roko; we need to know how the money is being used and most importantly, what members are asking. You need to have an interface with Roko and give a report to this House,” said Among.

The Minister of State, Finance, Planning and Economic Development (General Duties), Hon.  Henry Musasizi pledged to present the response. 
“I do commit that we shall bring a report about the issues which the LoP has raised,” Musasizi said. 

A total of 130 convicted prisoners were pardoned on October 15, 2024, in a presidential directive aimed at addressing public health and humanitarian concerns. The pardons were granted by His Excellency the President, in accordance with Article 121 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda.

The prisoners, who were mostly minor offenders, have since been released. Frank Baine, the Senior Commissioner of Prisons and Deputy Director of CCA, confirmed the news in a press release, stating, “All the pardoned prisoners have now been released. This move was made on public health and humanitarian grounds.”

The list of pardoned inmates includes individuals convicted of a variety of offenses. Theft accounted for the majority of the convictions, with 47 prisoners pardoned for crimes related to theft, including housebreaking, shopbreaking, burglary, and stealing from vehicles. Several others were convicted of grievous harm (10), manslaughter(6), arson(4), and possession of narcotics(5).

Among those pardoned were Christopher Otti, convicted of arson, and several others convicted of theft, such as Kirya Keefa for burglary and theft, and Madanda Derrick for theft. The pardon also extended to those involved in wildlife-related offenses, including Ndiaguma Afrikanu, who was convicted of unlawful possession of wildlife species.

“This is part of the government’s commitment to decongest prisons and ensure the wellbeing of prisoners, especially those convicted of minor offenses,” Baine noted.

The Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has directed the transfer of police officer Abdallah Tumusiime to the Parliamentary Police Directorate, following his commendable act of bravery while on duty.

Officer Tumusiime, who was seen controlling traffic in Kampala amidst a heavy downpour, earned widespread praise for his dedication.

Despite the adverse weather conditions, Tumusiime remained steadfast at his post, ensuring traffic flow and safety for motorists and pedestrians alike.

Speaking in Parliament today, Ms Among applauded Tumusiime’s exceptional service.

“I want to take a moment to applaud Police Officer Tumusiime Abdallah, who has demonstrated exceptional commitment, character, and dedication over the years in carrying out his duties. We salute his service to the nation,” she said.

The Speaker further directed that Tumusiime be transferred to the Parliamentary Police Directorate, where she believes his skills and work ethic will be further utilised. His transfer is set to take place in the coming days.

This move has been hailed by many as a step in recognising the hard work of officers who go above and beyond in their line of duty. Tumusiime’s bravery continues to inspire both his colleagues and the public.