The Minister of State for Trade, Harriet Ntabaazi, has disclosed that a staggering number of 30 Members of Parliament are currently under criminal investigation for their alleged involvement in the misappropriation of Shs 164 Billion designated for Cooperative compensation.
Notably, among the implicated individuals are five vocal Opposition MPs known for their outspoken and lively nature.
In her statement, Minister Ntabaazi shared that the Criminal Investigation Directorate (CID) has initiated investigations, identifying approximately 5 relevant files. She underscored the inclusivity of the probe, emphasizing that it extends beyond the Ministry to encompass over 30 MPs, including those from the Opposition. The Minister specifically highlighted the five active Opposition MPs characterized as talkative and noisy, indicating that they, too, will face the consequences.
While addressing the Parliament’s Trade Committee, Minister Ntabaazi called for composure among MPs, assuring them that the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives will continue to fulfill its duties despite the ongoing embezzlement investigation. Drawing a parallel with a previous scandal involving the Office of the Prime Minister and the theft of iron sheets, she stressed that governmental functions persisted unaffected.
“We aren’t deterred; we will address this challenge head-on. The matter is now in the hands of the government’s security investigatory organs. We must navigate through this process, and the law will prevail. This shouldn’t cause concern for the Committee, nor should it impede the government’s operations. Remember, even during the Office of the Prime Minister scandal with the iron sheets, business continued as usual. I urge you to remain composed; the government organs are fulfilling their duties,” Minister Ntabaazi reassured.
