Speaker of Parliament Anitah Among has officially declared her income, assets and liabilities to the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) in compliance with the Leadership Code Act, 2002.
The declaration, made today underscores the importance of public officials adhering to financial disclosure laws amid growing concerns over corruption and unexplained wealth accumulation among Uganda’s leaders.
Uganda’s Leadership Code Act mandates that all leaders declare their wealth every two years in March ensuring that public servants remain accountable for their financial dealings.
Section 4(1)(b) of the Act outlines penalties for non-compliance which include removal from office.
Among emphasized that the process is essential in tracking changes in wealth by comparing income, savings and expenditures over time thereby deterring financial misconduct.
Among’s declaration comes at a time when public trust in government transparency is at a crossroads.
Just last month, the IGG cleared Among of allegations of owning unaccounted for property in the United Kingdom, a controversy that sparked heated debates about illicit wealth in Ugandan politics.
By stepping forward to declare her assets, the Speaker is sending a strong message to other leaders that compliance with the law is not optional.
Inspector General of Government Beti Kamya, who also declared her own wealth today, reiterated that the Online Declaration System will close at midnight on March 31, 2025.
She warned that failure to declare assets would result in severe consequences including potential removal from office.
So far, only 37% of public officials have complied raising concerns about the reluctance of some leaders to disclose their financial status.
While Among’s declaration aligns with legal requirements, opposition argue that wealth declarations must be followed by thorough verification processes to ensure accuracy.
As the March 31 deadline approaches, Ugandans are waiting to see the remaining 63% of leaders yet to declare their wealth.
