In a development that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Uganda, allegations of corruption are swirling around the Parliament as the Leader of Opposition (LoP), Hon Joel Ssenyonyi, faces scrutiny over the appointment of Brenda Kaijagye, sister-in-law to opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, commonly known as Bobi Wine, as his Personal Assistant (PA).
The controversy is not only centered around the familial connection but is exacerbated by the alleged lack of transparency surrounding Brenda’s monthly salary, reported to be a significant sum of 14 million shillings.
The revelation was made by Kazo County legislator Hon Dan Kimosho, who claims to possess incriminating evidence suggesting that Bobi Wine directed Ssenyonyi to appoint Brenda to the coveted position.
Ssenyonyi, recognized for his vocal stance against corruption, is yet to provide a clear explanation of the criteria he followed in appointing Brenda.
In a recent news conference, he mentioned that the two individuals he initially recommended for the position were rejected by the Parliamentary commission without a clear explanation.
This controversy follows the replacement of Hon Mathias Mpuuga by Ssenyonyi as the LoP.
Mpuuga faced allegations of receiving a hefty reward of shs 500 million from Parliament, leading to his dismissal by Bobi Wine.
In response, Mpuuga staunchly denies the accusations, labeling them as witch-hunt and blackmail. Bobi Wine now demands that Mpuuga also relinquishes his post as a commissioner.
Brenda, a community psychology graduate and former Director of Caring Hearts, an NGO owned by her sister Barbie Kyagulanyi, with Bobi Wine as the patron, was previously appointed as a Policy Analyst on the Parliamentary Committee on climate change in 2021.
Her subsequent appointment as Ssenyonyi’s PA has raised questions regarding the transparency of the selection process and the specific responsibilities associated with the role.
The public’s skepticism is fueled by the lack of clarity surrounding Brenda’s qualifications and the perceived secrecy surrounding her substantial salary.
As calls for accountability intensify, Ssenyonyi is now under pressure to address these allegations and provide a detailed account of the decision-making process behind Brenda’s appointment, including specifics of her compensation package.
This unfolding story emphasizes the delicate balance between personal connections and the public’s demand for transparency within the corridors of Parliament, as the nation watches closely amid heightened scrutiny.