Former parliamentary allies of Speaker Anita Among, now aligned with government circles, have issued a sharp warning to opposition MPs who have repeatedly insulted Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Daudi Kabanda, once considered Among’s close confidant, cautioned that the ongoing anti-corruption drive, dubbed “Operation Ufisadi,” is poised to reach them.
Kabanda singled out MPs who, while publicly criticizing Gen Muhoozi, have continued to enjoy parliamentary perks, trips, and allowances. “To those who have built a habit of insulting General MK while benefiting from parliamentary privileges, Operation Ufisadi is now at your doorstep,” he stated firmly.
The warning reflects a growing tension between pro-military factions in Parliament and opposition lawmakers, many of whom have openly questioned the UPDF’s increasing involvement in civilian affairs. Kabanda’s remarks signal that the anti-corruption campaign is expected to expand beyond bureaucrats and officials to include high-profile political figures.
He recounted how some opposition MPs have consistently used parliamentary privileges for personal gain while attacking national security leaders. “Ani yali abatuma okumuvuma?” Kabanda rhetorically asked, implying that criticism without accountability will no longer be tolerated.
Sources within Parliament suggest that several MPs have grown uneasy following the statement. The warning comes amid ongoing investigations into alleged mismanagement, financial irregularities, and abuse of office. These investigations are being conducted with backing from the military, which is increasingly asserting oversight over governance and public resources.
Kabanda emphasized that the anti-corruption campaign is not personal, but a structured effort to cleanse governance institutions. “This is not about politics; it is about accountability. Nobody, regardless of party affiliation, is above the law,” he said.
The statement has fueled speculation that some opposition MPs who were previously outspoken about corruption but benefited from the system may now face scrutiny. Observers say that the message serves as both a deterrent and a clear signal of political realignment in Parliament.
Several opposition lawmakers have a history of openly challenging Gen Muhoozi and the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU). Kabanda’s warning appears aimed at curbing the habit of public insults while enjoying government privileges, a phenomenon he describes as “hypocrisy in action.”
Kabanda’s remarks come at a time when “Operation Ufisadi” is already recovering significant public funds and property, with reports indicating that several high-ranking officials have been investigated or detained. He insists that no one will be spared in the campaign, regardless of political standing.
The warning also highlights growing frictions between entrenched opposition networks and pro-government forces within Parliament. Analysts note that the military-backed campaign is transforming into both an anti-corruption and political oversight tool, potentially reshaping parliamentary power dynamics.
Kabanda drew attention to MPs who, despite their public criticism of military leaders, have benefited from allowances, trips, and other entitlements, painting a picture of double standards. He warned that continued indulgence in such behavior will have consequences.
He said that the campaign is designed to restore integrity, ensure responsible use of public resources, and hold accountable those who exploit their positions. “Operation Ufisadi is about cleaning our institutions, and nobody will escape the consequences of wrongdoing,” Kabanda reiterated.
Observers in Parliament suggest that the warning could trigger heightened self-censorship among opposition MPs, with some potentially curbing public criticism of Gen Muhoozi to avoid scrutiny. The message also reinforces the military’s growing influence in national politics.
Kabanda expressed confidence that the ongoing investigations will serve as a lesson to those who misuse parliamentary perks or position. He emphasized that accountability must be universal, covering all sectors and political affiliations.
He recounted past instances where opposition MPs openly criticized military leadership while benefiting from government resources, describing such behavior as “unacceptable” and “unsustainable.”
The statement has raised questions about the boundaries of parliamentary privilege and freedom of speech. Analysts warn that opposition MPs may need to carefully navigate their public statements while investigations continue under Operation Ufisadi.
Kabanda’s remarks also serve to strengthen the narrative of Gen Muhoozi as a central figure in national governance and anti-corruption initiatives. His leadership is portrayed as decisive, with clear backing from political and military institutions.
Observers note that the warning may also have broader political implications, particularly as Uganda approaches future electoral cycles. Aligning with or opposing military-backed initiatives could shape political fortunes in the coming years.
Kabanda concluded by calling on all MPs, regardless of political affiliation, to act responsibly, cooperate with ongoing investigations, and avoid public statements that undermine national leadership. “The message is simple: respect, accountability, and responsibility must guide every action in Parliament,” he said.
Finally, he underscored that Operation Ufisadi is far from over. “This is only the beginning. Those who believe they can insult leaders, enjoy perks, and escape consequences will soon learn that no one is untouchable,” Kabanda warned, sending a clear signal that the anti-corruption campaign will continue to expand its reach across.
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