The First Deputy Prime Minister, and former Speaker, Rebecca Kadaga has secretly picked the vehicle that was provided to her on Monday by Parliament.
On Monday morning, the current Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among handed over brand new Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles to emeritus Speakers, as provided in the recent enactment of the Parliamentary Pensions Act.
The beneficiaries included; Edward Ssekandi, Prof. Edward Rugumayo, Al Hajji Moses Kigongo and Francis Butagira.
However, at the cars’ giveaway ceremony, Kadaga, who served as 9th and 10th Speaker of Parliament, was a no-show, leaving many wondering if she had turned down the offer.
However, inside sources have revealed that Kadaga has secretly received her car.
Sources further reveal that Kadaga’s vehicle was picked by her driver Dominic Kityamo and her Personal Assistant, Joseph Ssali on Monday afternoon.
The cars which cost taxpayers’ Shs2.5 billion have dominated headlines, leaving Ugandans questioning the country’s priorities.
Many have since argued that it is unfair for Parliament to procure these expensive cars at the time when the country is grappling with dire state of roads and health facilities.
However, Speaker Among, on monday defended the budget decision, noting that the former Speakers have to be taken good care of because they are property of Government.
“As representatives of the Government of Uganda, it is our responsibility to ensure your well-being. You are the property of the Parliament..We have to look after you.” Among said on Monday.
Among, further announced that the emeritus Speakers will be provided with new cars every five years by Parliament.
It has also been confirmed that the cost of fuel, maintenance, and the salaries of the drivers will be covered by the taxpayers of Uganda.