By Spy Uganda
Members of Uganda’s 12th Parliament are set to receive Shs315 million each for the purchase of vehicles, following a government proposal aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of legislators in carrying out their duties.
According to budget documents, the government has requested a total of Shs166.8 billion to facilitate the acquisition of vehicles for Members of Parliament. The allocation is intended to improve MPs’ mobility, particularly in constituency work, legislative duties, oversight functions, and participation in parliamentary committees.
They argue that reliable transport is essential for lawmakers to effectively engage with constituents, monitor government programmes, scrutinise public expenditure, and participate in parliamentary business, especially in hard-to-reach areas across the country.
The proposed vehicle grant marks an increase of Shs115 million per MP compared to the Shs200 million allocated to legislators in the outgoing 11th Parliament. This means taxpayers will shoulder a higher cost in the next Parliament, reflecting rising vehicle prices and operational demands placed on lawmakers.
However, the allocation has drawn criticism from civil society groups. Julius Mukunda, Executive Director of the Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group (CSBAG), has questioned the necessity of allocating the full amount to each MP, describing it as an added burden on taxpayers.
Mukunda argues that government should prioritise investments that deliver broader public benefits, especially at a time when key sectors such as health, education, and social services continue to face funding constraints.
“We do not believe Members of Parliament need vehicles costing Shs315 million to perform their duties. Government resources should be directed toward programmes that benefit all Ugandans,” Mukunda said.
Despite the criticism, the government maintains that the allocation is part of broader efforts to strengthen Parliament’s capacity to effectively execute its constitutional mandate, including legislation, budget approval, and oversight of the Executive.
The proposal is expected to generate further debate as Parliament considers the national budget, with taxpayers, civil society organisations, and political leaders weighing the balance between the operational needs of lawmakers and prudent public spending.
