Ugandans have responded with humour to President Yoweri Museveni’s daily expenditure of Shs1 million on clothing.
The 2023-2024 National Budget was passed by parliament on Thursday, following an extensive session chaired by Speaker Anita Among.
During the debate, opposition members led by Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda (FDC, Kira Municipality) sought to reduce the State House budget. Ssemujju argued that the allocations were illegal.
Highlighting the issue, Ssemujju referred to the Minority Report, stating, “There is Shs350 million allocated for clothes, the same amount as last year. This means that we are spending an average of Shs1 million per day on the president’s clothes.”
He further questioned the necessity of such expenditures, saying, “Our President is not a Hollywood star who needs a new wardrobe every day. He is the president of a poor country. Why spend Shs350 million on clothes every year? What happened to the clothes we bought last year?”
The social media sphere reacted comically to the clothing expenditure.
Moses Serugo jokingly remarked, “Hahaha. I thought Museveni had his two shirts from Nytil.”
Edmand Rwagura tweeted, “So we buy these white shirts at 1m daily?”
SseyigaK questioned the burden imposed on the public, asking, “But really, why do you burden us with this? Is this why you overtax us? To buy shirts and suits!”
Khmro Isaac pointed out, “But he is always in one shirt and trousers ??.”
Omujuguju humorously suggested, “The President also needs handkerchiefs. At least 3 every day! Please budget for them.”
Museveni’s fashion choices, particularly his preference for oversized shirts, shoes, and suits, have long been a subject of discussion and mockery. He limited his wardrobe to just four items: suits, army fatigues, and yellow and white shirts.
