Minister of State for Privatization and Investment, Evelyn Anite, has called for a sweeping reduction in the salaries and allowances of Members of Parliament, arguing that inflated pay packages are breeding political greed, corruption, and violence.
Speaking during a press engagement, Anite said the allure of wealth in Parliament has turned politics into a battleground for personal gain rather than public service. She urged government to “remove the honey” that attracts opportunistic candidates, likening the financial incentives to nectar that draws swarms of self-serving individuals.
“The only way to change the perception that Members of Parliament go there to earn money is to reduce the amount they receive,” Anite stated.
Anite recounted her own experience as a young MP, revealing that her first paycheck was UGX 88 million, a figure she described as “insane.” She warned that such sums have distorted the purpose of political leadership, with candidates reportedly spending up to UGX 600 million on election day alone.
The minister also criticized the widespread practice of vote buying and excessive campaign spending, noting that some MPs have resorted to selling property to fund their bids for office. She argued that slashing salaries would attract leaders genuinely committed to service, not personal enrichment.
“If you are going there to make money, then you can be sure they will fight. But if you are going to serve the people, it will be different,” she added.
Her remarks have sparked national debate, with Speaker Anita Among and several MPs opposing any move to cut parliamentary budgets, citing operational constraints. However, Anite’s proposal has gained traction among civil society groups advocating for reforms in campaign financing and public sector accountability.
As the country grapples with rising public debt and growing demands for transparency, Anite’s bold stance may serve as a catalyst for rethinking the financial architecture of political office. Whether Parliament will heed the call remains uncertain, but the conversation around ethical leadership is gaining momentum.