State Minister for finance in charge of investment and privatization, Hon. Evelyn Anite, has vowed to pay with her blood if that is what it must take to stop the massive corruption and mis-use of public funds currently happening within her ministry.
Anite’s remarks follow a letter by lawyers representing the Deputy Director of Investment Authority (UIA), Paul Kyalimpa, threatening to drag her to court over her claims that he is among the beneficiaries of the service awards bonanza at UIA when officials illegally shared public funds in form of honoraria.
In her response by a letter of 3rd July 2024, Anite insisted that she cannot be intimidated and she is ready to save taxpayers money with her blood.
“Therefore, it is my unwavering position that I pledge to defend the taxpayer of Uganda against corruption, abuse of office and misuse of public funds be it even in courts of law in Uganda or anywhere in the world, to the last drop of my blood. So, bring it on!” Anite responded to a notice of intention to sue by Alaka & Co Advocates who represented Mr. Kyalimpa.
Anite’s letter also presented the list bearing names and account numbers of the beneficiaries in the Shs545m (about $145,000) payment made to UIA management for their role in supervising the Kampala Industrial Park Development (KIPD) project. The list includes UIA boss, Robert Mukiza (82m) and Paul Kyalimpa (53m), and seven others receiving cash ranging between 43million and 5million.
The yellow girl from Koboko advised the lawyers that the actions of their client is a preserve of the wrath of our national laws, and Kyalimpa alongside others should therefore prepare to fully refund Uganda taxpayers money that were deposited in their personal accounts.
“I fought for UTL very successfully and saved our company which was at the verge of collapse; I really fought to make sure it doesn’t have to be liquidated” Anite recounted her success story mentioning that in that case president Yoweri Museveni sided with her. It is not clear if the same applies this time.
She also refuted reports indicating that president Museveni had pardoned UIA officials during a meeting in State House where they had to been summoned explain themselves over the matter.
“I know the truth and I will not be intimidated” Anite vowed to push on up to the end.