By Our Reporter
Nakawa East Member of Parliament, Hon. Ronald Balimwezo, has ignited a nationwide conversation on political ethics and integrity after publicly rejecting a controversial UGX 100 million payout reportedly disbursed to Members of Parliament.
Speaking during solemn Easter joint prayers at the Old Kampala prayer grounds, Balimwezo made a bold and unexpected declaration: not only did he reject the unexplained cash handout, but he will also not seek re-election to Parliament in 2026. Instead, he announced his intention to run for the position of Lord Mayor of Kampala.
“As a Christian, I want to be honest with myself and with the people I serve,” Balimwezo stated to the thousands gathered for the Easter event. “I have not taken the said Shs 100 million. Take your money—I’m not for sale. I will not be labelled a thief.”
Balimwezo’s remarks, delivered against the backdrop of Easter reflections on sacrifice and moral responsibility, have struck a chord with many Ugandans. The MP condemned what he described as a growing culture of corruption within Parliament, saying it has eroded his faith in the institution.
“This is not the first time MPs are given money without proper explanation,” he said. “I cannot continue working in a Parliament where corruption is becoming normal. That is why I will not stand again in 2026.”
His decision to leave Parliament and instead vie for the Kampala Lord Mayor seat surprised many in Uganda’s political circles. Known for his outspoken stance on urban governance and anti-corruption, Balimwezo said he sees the Lord Mayor position as a more effective platform to address the city’s pressing challenges.
“I want to tackle issues Parliament has failed to solve,” he said. “People are dying due to garbage landslides and bad roads. Corruption is killing this city. I want to change that.”
Public reaction has been swift and divided. Civil society groups and opposition leaders have praised Balimwezo for his principled stand, urging other MPs to be transparent about the alleged payouts. Meanwhile, many citizens have voiced admiration for his integrity and courage.
“He is a man of integrity,” said one voter from Nakawa East. “We need more leaders like him. It is sad he is leaving Parliament, but we respect his choice.”
The controversy follows a letter from President Yoweri Museveni, who did not deny the Shs 100 million payments but instead explained that such funds fall under a classified budget intended for securing national interests. However, critics argue that such vague justifications only deepen public mistrust in government.
As the countdown to the 2026 general elections begins, Balimwezo’s announcement is expected to reshape the political landscape in Kampala. His campaign for Lord Mayor is likely to center on transparency, public service, and infrastructure reform—an agenda that may resonate with a populace hungry for accountable leadership.
In a political climate often marred by scandal and secrecy, Balimwezo’s stand has emerged as a rare and powerful statement of personal conviction. Whether it will inspire broader change remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: the call for ethical leadership in Uganda is growing louder.
Have An Advert Or Article You Want Us To Publish? Email: swiftnewsug@gmail.com
