A whistleblower has accused State Minister of Finance for Investment and Privatization, Evelyn Anite, of embezzling funds from the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) for personal gain.
In a petition filed with the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, led by Brig Gen Henry Isoke, the whistleblower specifically alleges that Minister Anite forced the UIA to contract her private hotel, L’Hotel Le Confidentiel, to supply food during a UIA summit in Nebbi, pocketing over Shs 50 million.
The whistleblower, Opolot Donozio, claims that Minister Anite’s actions constitute a clear conflict of interest.
“Hon. Anite’s dealings with UIA raise serious concerns about her integrity,” the petition states.
Additionally, Donozio alleges that Minister Anite owns several hotels, including L’Hotel Le Confidentiel, whose construction costs are disproportionate to her public income.
The petition, dated October 4, 2024, also alleges that Minister Anite has been involved in various shady dealings, including stealing funds meant for the acquisition of land for the Small and Medium Enterprise Park and Sewerage Treatment Plant in Namanve. Minister Anite allegedly allocated land irregularly in the industrial park and used her influence to extort money from companies operating in the area, according to Opolot.
Minister Anite’s alleged misconduct extends to her role in appointing the new UIA Board, which the petition claims lacks transparency and accountability. The petition questions the integrity of the Board’s chairman, Robert Kyamanywa, citing concerns about his qualifications and experience.
Furthermore, the petition alleges that Minister Anite illegally terminated the tenure of the previous UIA Board and directed the new Board to reinstate Amelia Natukunda, whose contract was not renewed due to poor performance.
This decision reportedly sparked controversy, as Natukunda lacked the necessary qualifications for her position.
The whistleblower petition urges the State House Anti-Corruption Unit to investigate these serious allegations and take action to protect the integrity of UIA and public funds. The petition highlights concerns about Minister Anite’s accumulation of wealth through corrupt means and her potential abuse of power.
The allegations against Minister Anite have sparked widespread concern about corruption and governance in Uganda. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit has yet to comment on the petition.
The UIA is a critical institution responsible for promoting investment and economic growth in Uganda. Any allegations of corruption or misconduct within the organization undermine its effectiveness and damage the country’s reputation.
The allegations come a few days after Minister Anite told fellow MPs that her heart bleeds because corrupt officials at UIA are being protected by powerful forces. (See Details Here).
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