Restoring Parliamentary Integrity: A Call for Transparency, Accountability, and Zero Tolerance for Corruption

Dear fellow Ugandans,
I, Hon. Princess Persis Namuganza, Member of Parliament-elect for Bukono County, wish to address one of the most critical pillars required to restore the credibility of Parliament: genuine transparency, accountability, and a fearless fight against corruption.

Since independence in 1962, Uganda’s Parliament has been served byspeakerss who upheld integrity and national values. However, recent years have been marked by serious allegations of corruption, misuse of public resources, opaque appointment processes, and the rise of unchecked power structures. These challenges have tarnished our national image, attracted international scrutiny, and eroded public trust. This, however, does not define Uganda, nor does it reflect the majority of Honourable Members who remain committed to serving with honesty and dedication.

This is not the Parliament our liberators fought for.
Across Africa and the world, exemplary Speakers have demonstrated the path we must follow. In Ghana, Rt. Hon. Alban Bagbin stands out as a beacon of integrity. As Speaker, he has served as President of the African Parliamentarians’ Network Against Corruption (APNAC) and championed initiatives such as National Integrity Awards to recognise citizens fighting corruption. He has also advocated for lifestyle audits, increased transparency in political financing, and stronger collaboration with the media to rebuild public trust.

In South Africa, the late Dr. Frene Ginwala, the first Speaker of democratic South Africa, championed the National Integrity System as a cornerstone in the fight against corruption, emphasizing that constitutional values and robust oversight must guide every action of Parliament.

Globally, Speakers in mature democracies enforce strong oversight mechanisms, including independent committees, public declaration of assets, and zero tolerance for conflicts of interest.
As Speaker, my commitment is unwavering: Parliament will operate with full transparency in all appointments, budgets, and proceedings. Accountability will be non-negotiable. Corruption will be confronted without fear or favour. Power structures that serve individuals rather than the nation will be dismantled. Every decision will be guided by merit, openness, and the public good.

This is not a struggle for personal position—it is a fight for the future of our motherland, Uganda. The men and women who went to the bush under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni sacrificed for freedom, justice, and accountable leadership—not for a system where a few undermine the dignity of our institutions.

We cannot stand by as the tireless efforts of the NRM leadership and all patriots who have contributed to building this nation are diminished. We must speak out. We must lead by example. We must inspire the next generation. Above all, we must restore the dignity of our nation.

A transparent and accountable Parliament will rebuild Uganda’s image and honour our liberation legacy.

God bless Uganda.