Political debate in Uganda has intensified after Democratic Party president Norbert Mao launched a fresh attack on Speaker of Parliament Anita Among over reports that she acquired a high-end luxury vehicle valued in billions of shillings. His remarks have sparked renewed discussion on wealth, leadership and public accountability.
Mao’s comments followed widespread reports that Speaker Among had allegedly acquired a Rolls Royce Cullinan 2025 model, a luxury SUV estimated at about £440,000 (approximately Shs 2.2 billion), with the total cost reportedly rising close to Shs 4 billion after taxes and clearance fees.
According to circulating reports, the vehicle was imported into Uganda from the United Kingdom through a private logistics arrangement linked to firms previously involved in parliamentary vehicle procurement. The development has attracted strong public interest due to its high value and timing.
The Rolls Royce Cullinan is widely known as one of the most expensive luxury SUVs in the world, commonly owned by wealthy individuals, global celebrities and royalty. Its appearance in Uganda’s political discussion has therefore triggered widespread public debate.
Speaking to journalists, Mao expressed concern over what he described as a growing culture of excessive spending among top leaders at a time when many Ugandans continue to face economic hardship.
“I have now heard that she bought a plush car, a Rolls Royce Phantom with Shs2.5 billion. In a poor country like Uganda, even if you enjoy showing off, spend your money responsibly,” Mao said.
His remarks were interpreted by political observers as a strong criticism not only of the Speaker’s lifestyle but also of the broader leadership culture within government institutions.
Mao further argued that public officials should be sensitive to the economic realities of citizens, especially when making decisions or engaging in personal spending that attracts public attention.
He suggested that such displays of wealth risk damaging the image of government and Parliament, particularly in a country where service delivery challenges remain a major concern.
The Speaker’s office has not issued a detailed response to Mao’s latest comments, although previous statements linked to similar controversies have often dismissed criticism as politically motivated.
Reports surrounding the vehicle also claim that tax clearance became a point of discussion before its release, with some accounts suggesting that arrangements were made to settle obligations linked to its importation.
However, official confirmation regarding the full details of the transaction remains limited, and different accounts continue to circulate in the public space.
The controversy comes at a time when Speaker Among is reportedly preparing for another term in office following the next parliamentary transition, making the political atmosphere even more competitive.
Some reports indicate that the debate has also drawn in other political figures and potential contenders interested in leadership roles within the 12th Parliament.
Among has previously faced public scrutiny over wealth-related issues, although she has consistently maintained that her income and assets come from legitimate business activities and investments.
Supporters of the Speaker argue that she is being unfairly targeted and insist that personal success should not automatically be interpreted as wrongdoing.
They further claim that focusing on luxury assets distracts from her official duties and contributions within Parliament.
Critics, however, continue to argue that public leaders must lead by example and avoid lifestyles that may appear disconnected from the struggles of ordinary citizens.
The discussion has also reignited broader concerns about transparency, accountability and the standards expected of individuals in high public office.
As debate continues, Mao’s remarks have added new momentum to ongoing conversations about leadership conduct and wealth in Uganda’s political environment.
For now, the controversy surrounding the reported luxury vehicle continues to dominate public discourse, reflecting deeper divisions over governance, responsibility and public perception of national leaders.
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