The Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development has confirmed the release of Shs168 billion to facilitate the purchase of official vehicles for Members of Parliament, bringing to an end more than two months of uncertainty over the allocation.
Finance Minister Henry Musasizi confirmed that the funds have been earmarked for more than 500 legislators of the 12th Parliament. The vehicle allocation was increased from Shs200 million to Shs315 million per legislator in the 2026/27 financial year.
The announcement was made while addressing Members of the 12th Parliament undergoing induction and orientation at Speke Resort Munyonyo, where Government Chief Whip Dr. Ruth Aceng had sought clarification on delays in releasing the funds.
Musasizi assured legislators that the Ministry had completed the necessary processes and that the funds would be disbursed in the July release cycle, sparking applause from members.
The allocation had earlier generated debate during the 2026/27 budget process, when Parliament requested an additional Shs166.8 billion to support vehicle procurement for legislators. The request was defended by then Vice Chairperson of the Budget Committee, Remigio Achia, who argued that MPs require reliable transport to effectively carry out oversight and constituency work.
He said standardised vehicles would improve mobility, enhance service delivery, and reduce inefficiencies in parliamentary operations.
In his remarks, Musasizi also reminded MPs of their constitutional responsibilities, emphasizing accountability in public spending.
Other officials, including Presidential Advisor Moses Byaruhanga, urged legislators to actively monitor government programmes, oversee project implementation, and ensure improved service delivery.
The induction continues with sessions focused on the national budgeting cycle, Uganda Vision 2040, and Parliament’s oversight role in national development.