A wave of anger has erupted across social media after President Yoweri Museveni pledged to give Shs100 million to each Member of Parliament-elect aligned with the ruling NRM party, with part of the money expected before their swearing-in in May.
Following the 2026 general elections, where the NRM secured about 370 parliamentary seats, the pledge translates into an estimated Shs37 billion in total—triggering sharp reactions from citizens already grappling with economic pressure.
While addressing the MPs-elect in Kyankwanzi on Tuesday, Museveni warned against corruption, calling it “suicide” for the country and vowing that bribery in public office would not be tolerated. He also spoke out against alleged corruption in budget approvals and urged proper use of funds under the Parish Development Model (PDM).
But online, many Ugandans say the message contradicts the action.
Kenan Olia voiced frustration, writing, “Man, some of us keep yawning every day and yet somehow folks are being gifted Shs100M out of thin air.”
Mbayo Richard questioned the source of the funds, asking, “Museveni earns Shs3.5M per month, where does he get the money to donate?”
David Kalanda criticized government priorities, saying, “Government has all the money it needs, it just doesn’t have the priorities it needs.”
Others were more direct in their criticism. Enid Baliruno remarked, “That elder is the real problem of this country because it’s not his money but taxpayers’ money.”
Phiona Nakyanzi expressed broader frustration with the economic reality many citizens face, writing, “You wake up, go to work hard for rich people… one wonders if he has this country at heart.”
Kato Frank challenged the MPs-elect themselves, saying, “If NRM chaps don’t believe in corruption, they should refuse that money.”
Peasant Prince linked the pledge to rising political tensions, noting, “That’s why politics have become do or die and elections are now warzones.”
Ken Kafeero questioned why such large sums can be mobilized quickly for politicians but not for public servants, asking, “Why can’t teachers’ salaries be increased if billions can be dished out in one day?”
