The UK Government has imposed a series of sanctions on Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, for her involvement in a corruption scandal related to the misappropriation of funds meant for development projects in the Karamoja region. The sanctions include travel bans and asset freezes, according to a statement released by the Deputy Foreign Secretary, Andrew Mitchell, on April 30.
The sanctions come in response to allegations that Speaker Among, along with former Karamoja Affairs ministers Mary Goretti Kitutu and Agnes Nandutu, benefited from the proceeds of corruption in what has been dubbed the "Karamoja iron sheets scandal."
In his statement, Mr. Mitchell condemned corruption, stating, "Corruption has consequences and you will be held responsible." He described the actions of Speaker Among and the two former ministers as "corruption at its worst and [something that] has no place in society."
The sanctions are a significant blow to Mr. Museveni's administration, as the UK Government's move directly challenges his defense of Speaker Among in the face of corruption allegations. Just last month, Mr. Museveni defended Speaker Among against corruption allegations, vowing to expose what he called "agents of foreigners" fighting against her.
The sanctions imposed by the UK Government prevent any UK citizen or business from dealing with funds or economic resources owned, held, or controlled by Speaker Among and the two former ministers. Additionally, the sanctions include a travel ban, barring the designated individuals from entering or remaining in the United Kingdom.
This is the first time the UK Government has used its Global Anti-Corruption Sanctions regime to target individuals involved in corruption in Uganda. The regime has previously targeted individuals involved in serious corruption cases in other countries, including Bulgaria, Lebanon, Moldova, Russia, South Africa, South Sudan, and Venezuela.
The corruption scandal in question involves the misappropriation of funds intended for development projects in the Karamoja region. It was discovered that thousands of iron sheets meant for roofing and infrastructure projects were diverted by government officials for personal use.
In response to the sanctions, Mr. Mitchell noted that the Ugandan courts are already taking action against those involved in the corruption scandal. He emphasized that corruption will not be tolerated and that those who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of their constituents will be held accountable.
Since the introduction of the Global Anti-Corruption Sanctions regime in April 2021, the UK has imposed sanctions on 42 individuals and entities worldwide to combat corruption. The regime allows for the sanctions to be imposed on individuals and entities involved in bribery, misappropriation of property, and other forms of serious corruption.
It is important to note that UK Aid was not involved in the Ugandan government project in question.
