AG report exposes accountability failures in parties

The Auditor General (AG) has released a damning report exposing widespread financial mismanagement among political parties in Uganda.

The report scrutinises the financial statements of the Electoral Commission as of June 30, 2023, and reveals that nearly all political parties receiving funds under the Political Parties and Organisations Act have failed to meet accountability standards.

Thesw include NRM, FDC, DP, JEEMA, UPC, PPP and NUP.

Despite repeated calls for transparency, the report indicates that these parties continue to struggle with inadequate financial reporting.

Proscovia Salaamu Musumba, national vice chairperson of the FDC Katonga, expressed little surprise at the findings, highlighting a longstanding issue within Uganda’s political landscape.

While parties like the NUP and FDC claim to maintain higher standards of financial accountability, the report suggests otherwise, raising concerns about the misuse of taxpayer money.

Robert Centenary, FDC spokesperson, insists on the party's commitment to proper financial practices, but doubts remain.

The Electoral Commission has been criticised for its lax oversight, with figures like Barbara Mulimira, Kampala’s EC Returning Officer, distancing the body from the financial management of these parties.

As public funds continue to be wasted due to poor accountability, Musumba places the blame squarely on the Electoral Commission for failing to enforce stricter financial guidelines.